Abstract

Objective: The aim of this experimental randomized study was to analyse the influence of the Adaptation to Parenthood Support Program (APSP), which was prepared based on Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), on the perceptions of parental selfefficacy in expected mothers in Turkey, Istanbul. Methods: Participant groups comprised 35 study, 33 control group expectant mothers as randomly. Firstly, the Descriptive Data Form (DDF) and Parental Self- Efficacy Scale (PSES) and Knowledge Test about Pregnancy (KTP) were filled on the pregnant women. The APSP was applied to the study group and was not applied to the control group. PSES and KTP were filled again both groups during postpartum period. Results: Both groups were similar in terms of mean PSES score during pregnancy (p>0.05). The mean PSES score was found to be 73.5 ± 3.2 in the study group in the postpartum period and 69.9 ± 4.85 in the control group. A statistically significant difference was found between groups in terms of parental self-efficacy score in the postpartum. The number of correct answer in KTP for the study group was significantly increased after APSP. Conclusions: The APSP, which was prepared based on SCT, has been determined to have enhancing effects on parental selfefficacy.