The Influence of Culture on Breast-Feeding Decisions by African American and White Women

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine how culture influenced breast-feeding decisions in African American and white women, using the Theory of Culture Care Diversity and Universality as a framework. One hundred eighty-six participants responded to the following: The word culture means beliefs and traditions passed down by your family and friends. How has culture affected how you plan to feed your baby? Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data. Four categories of responses were identified: influences of family, known benefits of breast-feeding, influences of friends, and personal choice. The findings suggest that race alone may not be as influential in infant feeding decisions as other factors. Although some women acknowledged the effect of their cultural background and experiences, most women reported that their culture did not affect their infant feeding decision. In this population, breast-feeding decisions were based on the influences of family, friends, self, and the perceived knowledge of breast-feeding benefits. Although breast-feeding statistics are commonly reported by race, cultural influences on infant feeding decisions may transcend race and include the influence of family and friends, learned information from impersonal sources, and information that is shared and observed from other people.

A Qualitative Study to Understand Cultural Factors Affecting a Mother’s Decision to Breast or Formula Feed

“…18,[20][21][22] Culture has been explained as a reflection of a group's shared attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions. A relatively unexplored area in coping with breastfeeding barriers is culture.…”

“…A relatively unexplored area in coping with breastfeeding barriers is culture. To further complicate, established cultures are influenced by external factors, 22,24 such as SES. 18,[20][21][22] Culture has been explained as a reflection of a group's shared attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions.…”

Breastfeeding in African Americans May Not Depend on Sleep Arrangement

“…Workplace support has been described by others as being important for women to sustain breastfeeding. 29,31 Women who return to work before their infant is 12 weeks old are less likely to continue breastfeeding. 33 Mothers also described that it was difficult to breastfeed without support from family members and friends.…”

“…This has been identified by others as a barrier. 31,32,34 Opposition to breastfeeding by family members and friends may reflect cultural beliefs and attitudes. 32,35,36 Of critical importance in sustaining breastfeeding is support from the infant’s father; the father’s opinion is more influential than support from other trusted sources.…”

Which factors influence women in the decision to breastfeed?

“…The support of friends who experienced a positive breastfeeding and advocate it was one of the major reason for mothers decide to breastfeed, serving as a source of suport. 13,17,18 Regarding the support provided by health professionals, mothers report being oriented, informed and received advice about breastfeeding by nurses of the sector.…”