The Relationship Between Breastfeeding Motivation, Workplace Breastfeeding Support, and Job Satisfaction Among Working Mothers

Abstract

Women of childbearing age constitute a vital part of the workforce, and some may be working when they start and continue breastfeeding. This study aims to determine the relationship between working mothers' breastfeeding motivation, workplace breastfeeding support, and job satisfaction. This descriptive and correlational study was conducted in Turkey between January and March 2020. Data from 195 mothers, who worked in three different public institutions, were collected in person using the Questionnaire Form and Workplace Breastfeeding Support Scale, Breastfeeding Motivation Scale, and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form. We used the statistical tests analyses of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal-Wallis H test, and Spearman's rho correlation analysis, with a significance level of p < 0.05. There was a weak positive correlation between the workplace breastfeeding support total score and breastfeeding intrinsic motivation (r = 0.151, p < 0.05). A weak positive correlation was found between the total score of the job satisfaction scale and the peer and environmental support subscale (r = 0.182, p < 0.05). Participants selfevaluated their breastfeeding competence. The difference between workplace breastfeeding support and breastfeeding competence was significant (F = 4.443, p < 0.05). Working mothers who perceived greater peer and environmental support also reported more breastfeeding intrinsic motivation and higher job satisfaction. Mothers with high breastfeeding competence had positive perceptions of workplace breastfeeding support. The study found no significant relationship between facility support and technical support subscales and job satisfaction