Mothers' problem‐solving skill and use of help with infant‐related issues: The role of importance and need for action

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Abstract
Examination was made of the relationship of mothers' appraisal of the importance of and need for action around infant‐related issues to maternal experience (parity and time since birth), use of help, and perceived problem‐solving competence. Sixty‐two mothers (38 primiparae and 24 multiparae) kept for 90 days post‐birth a daily log of issues, rated for importance and for need for action, and of help used. Mothers also reported perceived problem‐solving competence on an 11‐item scale. Findings indicated tentativeness in ratings of importance and action. Ratings of importance were associated with action ratings, except for temperament issues. Action ratings for baby care and illness issues decreased significantly with time. Otherwise, maternal experience had no effect on ratings. More of the variance in perceived competence than use of help was explained by action and importance ratings.