The Neonatal Behavioral Observation System: A tool to enhance the transition to motherhood

Background: Shorter hospitalisation after childbirth raises new challenges in the transition to parenthood. Aim. This paper reports a study designed to identify first-time mothers’ experience with The Neonatal Behavioral Observation System (NBO) as a guiding model. Method: A phenomenological qualitative study sampling four first-time mothers who received guidance from the NBO-specialist nurse two days after delivery. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Findings: Analysis revealed three themes describing the mothers positive experience of the guidance model: a) a new understanding of the baby’s communication abilities, b) an increased feeling of competence and confidence in dealing with challenges in caretaking issues, and c) being treated as individuals encouraged to make their own decisions. Conclusion: The NBO system can be used in clinical practice to enhance the transition to motherhood and family life and to provide support during the post-partum period. More research on the impact of NBO that includes fathers as well as different groups of at-risk parents is recommended.