Media and Breastfeeding: Friend or Foe?

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Jane D Brown, Sheila Rose Peuchaud

Primary Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The media's portrayal of breastfeeding can influence public perception and behavior regarding breastfeeding practices.

The media often portrays breastfeeding negatively, which can discourage mothers from breastfeeding.

The media often frames breastfeeding as difficult and potentially dangerous.
Media representations can vary significantly based on race and socioeconomic status.
Advertisers, particularly from the infant formula industry, have significant influence over media content.

The media can help or hurt breastfeeding by how they talk about it, and right now, they often make it seem harder than it is.

Media representations may be influenced by profit motives and advertising pressures.

Little systematic research has been done on the portrayal or effects of breastfeeding in the media.

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website