Impact of Motivational Interviewing on the Motivations and Attitudes Mothers of Only Children Toward Childbearing Publisher

Summary: Can motivational interviews change childbearing views? A five-week program improved mothers' attitudes, but not measured fertility motivation compared with controls. #MaternalHealth #PublicHealth

Ghaedi Heidari F ; Pourkazemi R ; Abbasi S
Source: Journal of Education and Health Promotion Published:2026

Abstract

BACKGROUND: One of the most crucial components in addressing the issue of population aging is a shift in societal attitudes and perceptions. By challenging stereotypes and promoting accurate, effective awareness, we can foster positive change. This study aimed to determine the impact of motivational interviewing on the motivations and attitudes of mothers of only children toward childbearing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest–posttest design with a control group and an intervention group. The research population consisted of mothers of only children who had sought routine care at comprehensive health service centers in 2024. Sixty mothers of only children were randomly selected and assigned to one of the two groups via a multistage sampling method. Data collection instruments included a demographic questionnaire, Miller’s Fertility Motivation Questionnaire, and the Attitude toward Fertility and Childbearing questionnaire, which validity and reliability were confirmed in previous studies. The intervention group participated in a five-week motivational interviewing program, with each session lasting 60–90 min. Data were collected both before and one month after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 21.0. RESULTS: The finding showed that among demographic variables, significant differences were found in the duration of marriage (t = -2.26, P = 0.02) and maternal occupation (χ2 = 6.94, P = 0.00) between the two groups. ANCOVA revealed no significant difference in positive (F = 0.25, P = 0.61) and negative (F = 1.02, P = 0.31) fertility motivations between the control and intervention groups post-intervention. However, a significant difference in attitudes toward childbearing was found between the two groups post-intervention (P = 0.036). CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrated the potential of motivational interviewing to influence the attitudes of mothers of only children toward childbearing positively. However, it is essential to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of childbearing, which is shaped by cultural, economic, and social factors. © 2026 Journal of Education and Health Promotion.