Abstract:
This study was set up to understand breast-feeding behavior of mothers using a developed
culture-specific tool grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in western Kenya. The methods used
in the study were Mixed Methods Approaches, in-depth interviews and FGDs. About 230 breast-feeding
mothers (18-40 years) attending Baby Friendly Hospital Initiatives were randomly selected for participation
in the study. Data analysis was done using Factor analysis, Principle Component Analysis with Varimax
rotation. The averages of intention, perceived behavioral control-2 and subjective norm communalities were
0.76, 0.82 and 0.78, respectively. A unit increase in maternal attitude and in perceived behavioral control
resulted in a 4.93 units decrease of breast-feeding intention on early initiation of breast-feeding within the
first hour of birth (p = 0.0296) and a 36.44 unit's decrease breast-feeding intention on initiation of breastfeeding
within the first
hour of birth (p = 0.0151), respectively. These results supported content and construct
validity
and the tool was useful in measuring factors influencing breast-feeding behaviour.
