Abstract
This study specifically investigated mode of breast feeding refusal by infants and causes of their refusal including coping strategies adopted by mothers in dealing with the problem. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Population of the study was 812 mothers who had experienced their infants refusing breast feeding in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State. Snowball sampling techniques were used to reach 406 mothers and they formed the study sample. A structured questionnaire was validated by an expert from Department of Home Economics and Hospitality Management Education, University of Nigeria. 406 questionnaires were administered and retrieved by the researcher with the help of two research assistants. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviations. The results showed that the nature of breastfeeding refusal by infants were 46.5% who were between 1- 4 weeks, 23% of the children who sucks, swallows the milk, and cries, 51% of the children refuse to breast feed for few days, and 53.5% of children resume after few days of refusal. Also, the perceived consequences of breastfeeding refusal, with the mean scores and standard deviations of (3.89) and 0.380 indicate that breastfeeding refusal significantly compromises an infant's immune system. Mean scores and standard deviations of (3.82) and 0.519 indicate that mothers seeking professional medical help as a primary coping strategy. It was concluded that mothers should receive adequate education, healthcare access, and emotional support to promote optimal breastfeeding practices and improving overall health outcomes in the Nsukka community. Recommendation were also made
Keywords: Breastfeeding, Enugu State, Infants, Mothers
Publication Date: 2024-12-08