The use of social network methodological framework in nursing care to breastfeeding women

Abstract

This study aimed to discuss the contribution of the social network methodological framework in nursing care delivered to women who breastfeed their children up to six months of age. This qualitative study aimed to elaborate the social network map of 20 women through tape-recorded interview. Social network analysis evidenced a 'strong' bond between these women and members from their primary network, especially friends, neighbors, mothers or with the child's father, who were reported as the people most involved in the breastfeeding period. The contribution of this framework to nursing practice is discussed, especially in care and research processes. We believe that nurses' appropriation of this framework can be an important support for efficacious actions, as well as to favor a broader perspective on the social context people experience.

Influence of the social network on the breastfeeding process: a phenomenological study

“…The influence of feminine figures on supporting breastfeeding reinforces the idea that the female gender entitles women as trusted caregivers, given that they are almost always mothers, who have experience with maternity and breastfeeding 6,7,19 .…”

“…Similar results were also found in national and international studies on the theme of social support for breastfeeding women, evidencing the importance of family support, especially in the early stages of breastfeeding. These studies point to the fact that for mothers to breastfeed successfully, it is not enough to just choose to practice it, they must be part of a social context that helps them to take this decision forward 6,7,9,12,18 . The fact that most researched women mentioned that, in addition to their husbands, they also counted on their mothers, mothers-in-law, sisters-in-law or friends evidences the predominance of feminine figures at their sides.…”

“…Some possible causes for early weaning that were mentioned were socioeconomic and geographical differences, which are barriers for women to receive quality health care and be monitored during the breastfeeding process 5 . In Brazil, starting in the 90s, some studies on breastfeeding demonstrated the importance of considering women capable of choices, of having certain sensibilities, histories, daily routines and as individuals who need somebody at their side for support and care [6][7][8][9] . In this perspective, it is necessary to consider both biological and social aspects of breastfeeding in order to understand the conditional factors of this practice.…”

“…Thus, most studies focused on the theme of breastfeeding pointed to the biological aspects that are part of its practice 1,10,14 . To complement that, qualitative studies on social conditions, such as the influence of social support or social network on breastfeeding, as well as studies with a phenomenological approach, enhance the understanding of the breastfeeding phenomenon [6][7][8] . As such, the aim of this study was to understand the influence of women's social network during the breastfeeding process.…”

Social Support Networks for Women in Situations of Violence by an Intimate Partner

“…The social market network refers to economic activities, linked to money and to profit. 16,18 In the development of this research, Sanicola's theoretical reference indicated instruments and resources necessary for theknowledge regarding the involvement of people and institutions in the relationship of women in situations of violence within the social support network. It also allowed deductions on the properties of the care network, with articulated and resolute interventions, in ceasing the violent relationship with the intimate partner.…”