Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Aaron Jones, Nancy

Abstract

This work examines the individual and comprehensive effects of oxytocin, maternal depression, and breastfeeding on the mother-infant bond. Self-report measures are used to illustrate differences in behavior, temperament, and maternal feelings towards her infant and her experiences associated with motherhood. Based on previous literature highlighting the protective and beneficial effects of oxytocin during maternity, results from this longitudinal study examining mother-infant dyads from prenatal to three-months postpartum are aimed to combine psycho-social and biological components associated with child rearing to form a complete understanding of the mother-infant bonding system. While our research provides support for certain psycho social components by demonstrating an irrefutable impact of depressive symptoms and breastfeeding self-efficacy on later displays of postpartum attachment, there is still room for question in regards to the role that oxytocin may play.

Extent

94 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.A.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2019.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00013253

Format

pdf

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