Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What can increase the likelihood of a mother breastfeeding her baby?

1. Support from family members.

2. The size of the baby.

3. The age of the mother.

4. The baby's attractiveness.

The correct answer is: Support from family members.

Support from family members plays a critical role in increasing the likelihood of a mother breastfeeding her baby. This support can manifest in several ways, such as providing emotional encouragement, helping with household responsibilities, or offering practical assistance with breastfeeding techniques. When mothers feel supported by their partners, family, or friends, they are more likely to initiate and continue breastfeeding, as they may experience less stress and feel more confident in their ability to nurse. Additionally, encouragement from family members can sway a mother’s perceptions and attitudes toward breastfeeding, making it more likely for her to follow through with this choice. The other factors mentioned, like the size of the baby, the age of the mother, and the baby's attractiveness, do not significantly influence the decision to breastfeed. For instance, while a larger baby might seem more capable of breastfeeding effectively, it's not a determining factor for whether the mother will choose to breastfeed. Similarly, a mother’s age may influence her physical ability to nurse, but it doesn’t directly correlate with her decision to breastfeed based on psychological or social factors. Lastly, the baby's attractiveness is not a relevant factor in the decision-making process surrounding breastfeeding.