Investigation of Complementary Feeding Transition Behaviours in Mothers in the Process of Transition to Complementary Feeding: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background

The transition to complementary feeding directly affects child health. In this period, economic and cultural factors affect the transition to complementary feeding. The aim of this study was to investigate the transition behaviours of mothers with 6-month-old babies who were in the process of transition to complementary feeding.

Method

The cross-sectional study was conducted between February and April 2024. The study sample consisted of 721 mothers with 6-month-old babies. The data were obtained through snowball sampling method on the online platform. The study focused on mothers' demographic and Transition to Complementary Feeding Behaviors Scale (TCFBS) results. Data were obtained on an online platform. Difference, correlation and regression analyses were performed.

Results

The mean age of the mothers included in the study was 27.58 ± 3.87. The TCFBS total score of the mothers included in the study was 92.01 ± 15.18. There was a statistically significant difference between the education and income status of the mothers and the gender of the baby and TCFBS total score (p < 0.05). According to the regression analysis, it is possible to explain approximately 46.4% of the variable of transition behaviour to complementary feeding in dependent mothers with the gender of the baby and the educational status of the mother.

Conclusion

Complementary feeding transition behaviour of mothers in the process of transition to complementary feeding was found to be positive. It was found that the complementary feeding behaviour of the mothers was affected by the gender of the baby and education, and the transition to complementary feeding behaviours of mothers with female babies and university graduates were positive. It can be said that mothers need care and counselling from midwives and nurses in this period.