Original scientific paper
The Application of Autogenic Training in Counseling Center for Mother and Child in Order to Promote Breastfeeding
Mercedes Vidas
Vera Folnegović-Šmalc
Marija Čatipović
Marko Kisić
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether mothers with newborn children, the usage of autogenic training with
advice on breastfeeding effect on: the decision and the duration of breastfeeding, increase maternal confidence and support.
It was assumed that the above result in a higher percentage of mothers who exclusively breastfed baby during the
first six months of child’s life. The survey was conducted in the Association »For a healthy and happy childhood«-Counseling
center for mother and child, in Bjelovar in 2010. The Counseling center was attended by 100 nursing mothers
with children aged up to two months. They randomly went to the study or control group. Mothers of both groups were advised
to successful breastfeeding. Study group has practiced autogenic training until the child’s age of six months. In
parallel, by using psychotherapeutic interview and specific questionnaires we collected data on the somatic, psychological
and social situation of the mother, discovered mother’s mental changes (anxiety, depression) that were treated. The results
at the end of the study confirm the initial expected benefits from the application of autogenic training. Mothers of
the study group were significantly more emotionally balanced with a higher self-esteem. Autogenous training with the
advices for successful breastfeeding conducted in this counseling center contributed in significantly higher rate of breastfeeding
children up to six months of life, improved mental and physical health of mother and child and their peculiar relationship.
Keywords
autogenic training; promotion breastfeeding; counseling centre
Hrčak ID:
72164
URI
Publication date:
30.9.2011.
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