Understanding Parental Perspectives on Childhood Vaccines: Examining Attitudes and Behaviors of Parents with Young Children

Understanding Parental Perspectives on Childhood Vaccines

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction

Vaccine hesitancy is a current and global problem. In order to increase social acceptance of vaccination, it is recommended to determine the local situation and propose solutions per cultural norms. Studies have shown that vaccine hesitancy is a steerable situation and that the bond of trust between the health worker and the parent increases vaccine acceptance. In our study, we aimed to examine the attitudes and behaviors of participating parents regarding childhood vaccines.

Material and Method

The study population was home-parents with children aged 0-24 months who agreed to participate by snowball sampling method. Participants completed the "Parental Attitudes Towards Childhood Vaccinations" scale (Bulun et al.) and sociodemographic data form online. An information form was sent to all participants, and informed consent was obtained.

Study permission was obtained from the Istanbul Medipol University ethics committee on 22.03.2022 with the number E-10840098-772.02-1923.

Results

A total of 138 participants were reached online. Of the parents reached, 87.76% (n:86) were mothers, and 66.33% (n:65) had one child. 95.88% (n:93) of the participants reported being married. 53.61% (n:52) of the participants had completed undergraduate education. 98 questionnaires with appropriate age groups and complete answers were evaluated. The number of participants who decided not to vaccinate was 16 (16.33%), while 10 (10%) participants stated that they postponed vaccination. 73% (n: 72) of the participants thought vaccination was more effective than natural immunization. 69.38% (n: 68) of the participants reported trusting the information they received about vaccines. Again, 69.38% (n:68) of the participants reported that they could openly discuss their concerns about vaccines with healthcare professionals. 63% of the participants stated they had no hesitation about childhood vaccines. All participants reported that they would get vaccinated when they had other children. When asked about the sources of information about childhood vaccines, 92.78% (n: 90) of the participants stated that they obtained information from healthcare professionals. In comparison, 53.61% (n: 52) of the participants reported using online sources.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Numerous studies have highlighted that vaccine ambivalence, recognized as a major global issue, can be addressed effectively through collaborative efforts with families via non-judgemental, empathic, supportive, and tailor-made family interviews with solution-oriented approaches. Our study group observed that the concerns raised align with the literature, although epidemiological studies in our country remain limited. When attempting to find scientific solutions by comprehending the family's concerns, it is crucial to reassess the situation during each interaction and persistently pursue solutions with patience, especially regarding child health and societal impacts.

Key Words: Vaccination Hesitancy, Parents, Vaccination, Trust