Promoting Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy: Fear Appeals in Breastfeeding Management

Abstract

Lactation consultants (LC) often use fear appeals when providing anticipatory guidance to mothers about breastfeeding. We mention that improper positioning or latch-on can lead to sore nipples or fissures, or that inadequate or irregular emptying can lead to plugged ducts, mastitis, or a diminished milk supply. Instead of motivating the mother to practice the recommended preventive measures, fear appeals can lead to lack of confidence and fear of failure. Instead, lactation consultants can increase the mother’s confidence in her ability to breastfeed by helping her envision success, manage self-defeating thoughts, and solve problems. This article explores how the Extended Parallel Process Model can be applied to lactation consultation to increase the probability that the lactation consultant’s message will be heeded rather than rejected.