Perception of Infant Colic by Caucasian and Hispanic Mothers in the WIC Program

Abstract

Colic is a phenomenon of early infancy that frustrates and puzzles parents and health providers. Colic accounts for a large number of provider visits as parents are concerned and seeking answers to this infant behavior. Feeding practices, allergy, gastrointestinal abnormalities, parental interaction and an extreme form of normal infant behavior have been projected as possible causes of colic. Research has also focused on coping mechanisms and support for parents experiencing colic with their infants. Furthermore, research on colic is somewhat limited is ethically diverse infant populations. <p>A descriptive design was used to explore the differences in maternal perception of colic between Caucasian and Hispanic mothers. King's (1981) Interacting Systems Framework and the association concept of perception provided the theoretical framework for the study. A convenience sample of mothers enrolled in the WIC program at a rural health department and a migrant health clinic were given the maternal Perception of Infant Colic question are to complete. Infant behaviors, crying and feeding patterns as well as maternal perceptions were explored. <p>Analysis revealed statistically significant results on only one item of the Maternal Perception of Infant Colic question are. Caucasian and Hispanic mothers responses varied on whether infant colic was related to the way the infant was cared for. <p>An interesting finding of the study was that differences in infant care practices, such as feeding and pacifier use were present. This finding suggests further research in infant care practices is indicated.