Predictors of prenatal attachment in mothers of twins.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the predictive relationship between prenatal attachment and selected demographic and biopsychosocial factors and to compare these predictors to those identified in previous research on maternal attachment in singleton pregnancies.

DESIGN

A predictive correlational descriptive design.

SETTING

Data were obtained via mailed surveys.

PARTICIPANTS

214 women expecting twins were recruited from a national mother of twins support group.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Instruments included the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Norwood Social Support Apgar, Miller Prenatal Attachment Inventory, and a demographic data tool to collect data on perinatal factors of gestational age, infertility history, perceived risk status, fetal movement, and planning of pregnancy.

RESULTS

Women who were younger, with lower income, a history of infertility, greater self-esteem, who had experienced quickening, and were further along in their pregnancy reported greater prenatal attachment to their twins (Adjusted R2 = 19.4%, p < .001). Perceived risk, social support, and planning of pregnancy did not predict level of attachment.

CONCLUSION

Factors that influence attachment in women experiencing a twin pregnancy are complex, and much is still unknown. Development and testing of theory is needed to guide future research and practice.