Development of Maternal Adaptation Scale for the Primipara Women

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a maternal adaptation scale for primipara in Korea.Method: The theoretical framework of this study was developed based on Roy adaptation model, a literature review, and in-depth interviews with primipara who gave birth within 6 months. Data were collected using a selfreport questionnaire at obstetrics, gynecology, and pediatric hospitals. A total of 321 primiparas who had given birth within 6 months were included in this study.Results: An exploratory factor analysis demonstrated that the maternal adaptation scale for primipara consisted of 6 factors reflected in a total of 28 questions. A criterion validity assessment confirmed that a significant correlation was present between the developed scale and Lederman tool measuring maternal adaptation (r=0.54, p<0.001). The known-group validity was also established demonstrating that the normal group had higher scores of maternal adaptation than those of the depressed group (F=44.53, p<0.001). Cronbach α for the total scale was 0.87 and the subscales ranged from 0.73 to 0.84, establishing the scale's reliability.Conclusion: The study concluded that this newly developed scale of maternal adaptation is a reliable and valid instrument through empirical data verification. Therefore, the scale is recommended for active use in evaluating the level of maternal adaptation of new mothers within clinical settings, and future studies investigating the phenomenon.