View article

Aim.  The aim of this study was to explore Chinese women’s perceptions of maternal role competence and factors contributing to maternal role competence during early motherhood.

Background.  Developing a sense of competence and satisfaction in the maternal role are considered critical components in maternal adaptation, which have a significant impact on parenting behaviours and the psychosocial development of the child. However, qualitative studies that address maternal role competence are limited in the Chinese population.

Design.  This was an exploratory descriptive study.

Method.  A purposive sample of 26 Chinese primiparous mothers participated in a childbirth psychoeducation programme and was interviewed at six weeks postpartum. Data were analysed using content analysis.

Results.  Women perceived a competent mother as being able to make a commitment to caring for the physical …