Evaluation of Breastfeeding Education Delivered Using the Role-Play Technique Among Adolescent Pregnant Women: A Randomized Controlled Study

Adolescence is defined as a period of rapid biological and physical development, as well as sexual and psychosocial maturation, during which the individual gains independence and social productivity. This developmental period largely corresponds to the age range of 10 to 19 years, consistent with the WHO (World Health Organization) definition of adolescence. Adolescent pregnancy is considered a public health issue by the WHO due to its biopsychosocial effects on maternal and child health. Adolescents often seek antenatal care late due to a lack of information, limited access to healthcare, social pressure, and fear of stigma. There are many increased risks for both mother and newborn during adolescent pregnancy. The low educational level of adolescent pregnant women also negatively affects access to necessary healthcare services. Breastfeeding is the most appropriate way to provide breast milk to the baby for healthy development. It is the healthiest, easiest, most natural, and most economical method of feeding the baby. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth . Providing planned education to protect and improve the health of individuals, families, and communities, and to ensure they acquire correct health behaviors, is among the fundamental duties of nurses, who are in the most contact with healthy/sick individuals in the community.

Role-playing is among the educational methods used to increase awareness in nursing. Role-playing is used in education as a skill-oriented teaching method that enables social communication skills, active listening, empathy for emotions, and seeing excerpts from real life in teaching knowledge and skills. Especially in educational groups with low education levels, the effectiveness of education can be increased by using the role-playing technique.