Validation of the Serbian version of the Breastfeeding self-efficacy scale-short form

Abstract

Introduction/Objective Breastfeeding prevalence in Serbia remains low compared with global estimates. Breastfeeding self-efficacy scale-short form is widely recognized as a key, modifiable determinant of breastfeeding outcomes, with growing evidence that improving it is associated with higher breastfeeding rates. This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the scale for use in Serbian language, establish its psychometric adequacy within a population of breastfeeding mothers throughout the first postpartum year, and examine differences in scores by selected sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics.

Methods A total of 70 breastfeeding mothers who delivered at the Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Clinical Center of Vojvodina participated in this cross-sectional study. The validated Croatian version served as the basis for the adaptation process, which followed standardized cross-cultural procedures. Internal consistency was evaluated using item-total statistics and Cronbach’s α. Group differences were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test.

Results The participants’ mean age was 32.19 years (SD = 5.17). The instrument showed strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.73–0.87). Corrected item–total correlation coefficients ranged from 0.13 to 0.73. The mean score was 54.11 ± 10.81, indicating high breastfeeding self-efficacy. Lower scores were observed among mothers with cesarean delivery, shorter intended breastfeeding duration, early cessation, lack of early initiation, and insufficient breastfeeding support.

Conclusion The Serbian version of the scale exhibited good internal consistency and preliminary validity as an instrument for assessing breastfeeding self-efficacy.

Keywords: breast feeding; self-efficacy; surveys and questionnaires; cross-sectional studies; mothers; postpartum period