Recognition of Child Maltreatment by Mothers Raising Infants Up to Four Months of Age and Types of Support Felt Necessary

Objective: This study aimed to identify whether mothers who had undergone their one-month checkup at obstetrical care facilities and were raising infants up to four months of age recognized child maltreatment, the coping strategies that they used to calm their emotions during those moments, and types of support felt necessary. Method: This was a qualitative, descriptive design study conducted from July 2022 to March 2023. Semi-structured interviews based on an interview guideline of 21 first-time mothers raising infants up to four months of age were conducted. The responses were classified into categories. Results: Situations that mothers caring for infants up to four months of age recognized as child maltreatment were classified into 11 categories, such as [Becoming emotional for not understanding the child’s needs or the reason for their crying, and reacting confrontationally towards the child]. Coping strategies that helped mothers calm their emotions during those moments were classified into 10 categories, such as [Conversing with adults around them]. Types of support that mothers felt necessary were classified into 14 categories, such as [Guidance from experts on the growth and development of their children, even after leaving the maternity facility]. Discussion: Maltreatment recognized by postpartum mothers up to four months after birth was classified into two categories: situations involving actions taken towards the child, although not at a serious level, and situations where no actual actions were taken. Even acts that do not actually constitute maltreatment were considered maltreatment. During parenting, every mother may experience negative feelings towards her child and may face moments when she feels incapable of engaging with her child. The importance of socially supporting mothers who are often alone with their children and having preventive approaches for all postpartum mothers were suggested as supportive measures needed to prevent the occurrence of maltreatment.