Many new mothers discontinue breastfeeding prematurely. Researchers have shown that maternal confidence is an important factor in the continuation of breastfeeding. The purpose of this methodological study was to develop and conduct preliminary psychometric assessment of an instrument to measure confidence in new breastfeeding mothers. Using self-efficacy theory as a conceptual framework, the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (BSES) was developed and content validity was judged by a panel of experts and through interviews with experienced breastfeeding mothers. Following a pilot test, the revised BSES was assessed with 130 in-hospital breastfeeding mothers for reliability and validity, including internal consistency, principal components factor analysis, comparison of contrasted groups, and correlations with measures of similar constructs. Support for predictive validity was demonstrated with positive correlations between BSES scores and infant feeding patterns at 6 weeks postpartum. Following further testing, this instrument may be used to identify new mothers with low breastfeeding confidence who are at high risk to prematurely discontinue breastfeeding.

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This descriptive study was designed to examine the interrelationships of depression, stress, mastery, and social resources in four ethnocultural women's groups. The random sample (N = 212) was comprised of Chinese (n = 60), Vietnamese (n = 46), Portuguese (n = 56), and Latin American (n = 50) immigrant women. Using the CES-D, high depressive symptoms were reported by all groups. Collectively, the major correlates and predictors of depression were perceived stress and mastery. Group-specific analyses revealed different models for predicting depression in each ethnic group. The findings underscore the need for observation of the indicators of depression in immigrant women--regardless of their phase of resettlement--and a flexible, individualized approach to ethnic women's psychological health care.

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Advances in genetic technology increase the ability to test children and adolescents for late-onset conditions, disease susceptibilities, and carrier status. Genetic tests may offer medical or psychologic benefits but may also create harm; alteration of the child's self-concept or parent-child bonds and risk of stigmatization are examples of the latter. The article examines developmental theories concerning children's ability to make choices as well as informed consent and ethical considerations in genetic testing. Because optimal care requires awareness of the complex psychosocial and ethical issues involved in childhood genetic testing, nurses must be prepared to acknowledge and discuss such issues with families.