Mandala Intervention on Mother-Infant Bonding and Parenting Self-Efficacy After Negative Birth Experiences

Summary

The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to evaluate the impact of a mandala-based art intervention on mother-infant bonding and parenting self-efficacy among primiparous women (first-time mothers) who have had a negative birth experience. The study focuses on how structured creative activities can support emotional recovery and maternal confidence in the early postpartum period. A total of 66 participants were randomly assigned to either a Mandala Coloring Group or a Free Coloring Group. The intervention group participated in a structured session involving guided breathing, imagery, and symbolic mandala drawing designed for stress reduction and emotional expression. The control group engaged in a non-guided, free coloring activity. Data were collected using standardized tools, including the Mother-Infant Bonding Scale, the Karitane Parenting Confidence Scale, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The primary goal is to determine if the mandala-based intervention leads to significant improvements in the bond between mother and infant and increases the mother's confidence in her parenting abilities. Secondary outcomes include changes in anxiety levels following the intervention. All procedures were conducted in a supportive environment under researcher supervision to ensure participant safety and data integrity.

Conditions

• Mother-Infant Bonding

Interventions

OTHER

Mandala Coloring

The mandala practice was carried out as a structured relaxation and expression process with the following steps (Sarı Öztürk et al., 2022): Information: The participant was given brief information about the philosophy of mandalas. Breathing Exercise: Relaxation was practiced for approximately 5 minutes using the "square breath" technique. Guided Visualization: The participant was asked to imagine a scene by the sea and clear their mind. Wish Mandala: The participant was asked to draw and color a mandala representing their own feelings and wishes. It was suggested that the mandala be named and hung in their room if desired. Visualization and Music: The guided visualization process was supported by the rhythm of a shamanic drum in the background. Stress Mandala: The participant released their stress with drawings spiraling outwards from the center, and if desired, completed this work symbolically by tearing it or releasing it into water.

OTHER

Free Coloring

The free painting activity aims to allow the mother to freely express her feelings without any guidance. Initiation: The participant began drawing without any plan. Creative Flow: The drawings reflected the participant's current mood and emotional state. Exploration and Expression: Inner exploration was achieved through the images and themes that emerged during the process. Completion: Upon completion of the work, the participant evaluated the resulting picture as a personal reflection. This activity was evaluated solely for the purpose of emotional expression, not based on artistic skill.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University

  lead OTHER

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

SUPPORTIVE_CARE

Masking

NONE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

35 Years

Sex

FEMALE

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-06-26

Primary Completion

2025-11-28

Completion

2025-12-29

Countries

• Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations