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| Author | Rita Anna Attard |
| Abstract | This study explored the attitudes towards breastfeeding of Maltese 16 and 17 year-olds. A self-administered semi-structured questionnaire was distributed to 60 students, both males and females, attending a local sixth-form. A 100% response rate was obtained. The study showed that all participants had seen a baby being bottle-fed while few had witnessed breastfeeding. Participants were aware of the health benefits of breastfeeding, particularly for the baby. Many participants, especially females, cited various disadvantages of breastfeeding, which are indicative of negative perceptions and of perceived difficulties with breastfeeding. Most of the subjects had never received information about breastfeeding and the majority expressed their interest in receiving such information, particularly from a midwife, school and the media. Generally, participants did not agree with breastfeeding in public places due to issues of privacy and embarrassment. Midwives, the partner, other relatives and friends were reportedly positive influences on the choice of breastfeeding. Education about breastfeeding may be reflected in an increase in the local breastfeeding rate. The development of promotional breastfeeding strategies would need to address the evident socially-acquired perceptions of such young people in order to establish breastfeeding as a social norm. |
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| Journal | B.Sc. (Honours) Midwifery, University of Malta |
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| Pages | - |
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| Key words | breast feeding, midwifery, perception, adolescent, health promotion, education |