This Assignment Involves Identifying And Describing The Stre

This Assignment Involves Identifying And Describing The Strengths And

This assignment involves identifying and describing the strengths and weaknesses of the research method used in the Sand-Jecklin and Sherman (2014) research article. Focus on the research design, sample data collection methods, tools used for data collection, and the plan for data analysis as discussed in the article. Identify at least two strengths and two weaknesses of the study based on reliability and validity, supported by citations from resources not assigned this week. Use the copy of the Journal Club Template for Quantitative Research provided in this week's resources, which includes sections for each element discussed in the study. Be brief, paraphrase, and summarize each element clearly on the form. Provide the full citation of the article used for this assignment on the template.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The research conducted by Sand-Jecklin and Sherman (2014) aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a breast milk collection device in improving maternal-infant bonding and maternal comfort during breastfeeding. Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of this study involves examining the research design, data collection methods, tools used, and data analysis plan, with an emphasis on the reliability and validity of the research methods employed.

Research Design

The study employed a quasi-experimental, randomized controlled trial (RCT) design aimed at assessing the impact of the breast milk collection device. The RCT design is a strength because it allows for the control of confounding variables, thereby increasing internal validity, as noted by Polit and Beck (2017). Randomization helps evenly distribute characteristics that could influence outcomes, thus enhancing the reliability of the findings. However, the quasi-experimental aspect, due to the lack of blinding, potentially introduces bias, which reduces internal validity (Shadish, Cook, & Campbell, 2002).

Sample and Data Collection Methods

The study included a purposive sample of postpartum women, stratified into intervention and control groups. The data collection involved surveys and structured interviews, which are standard methods for capturing subjective experiences and perceptions. While these tools are practical, their reliability depends on consistent administration and validated instruments. A strength is that the researchers used standardized questionnaires to measure bonding and maternal comfort, supporting internal consistency and reliability (Polit & Beck, 2017). Nonetheless, the reliance on self-reported data introduces the possibility of response bias, which can threaten validity.

Tools for Data Collection

Data were gathered using standardized Likert-scale questionnaires and observational checklists. The use of validated instruments, such as the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire, demonstrates a strength, as validated tools tend to have established reliability and validity (Baker et al., 2010). However, observational checklists may vary in consistency depending on the observer, and unless inter-rater reliability is established, this can weaken the reliability of observational data (Satzinger et al., 2015).

Plan for Data Analysis

The researchers utilized descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including t-tests and chi-square tests, to evaluate differences between groups. The use of appropriate statistical tests supports the validity of the findings, assuming assumptions such as normality and homoscedasticity are met. Moreover, the plan to conduct intention-to-treat analysis increases internal validity by accounting for attrition (Gupta, 2011). A weakness, however, is the limited mention of how missing data were handled, which could bias the results and affect reliability.

Strengths and Weaknesses Based on Reliability and Validity

The first strength is the use of validated questionnaires, which bolster the study's internal consistency and measurement validity. The second strength is the randomized controlled trial design, enhancing internal validity through control of confounding variables. Conversely, a notable weakness is reliance on self-reported data, susceptible to response bias, affecting construct validity. Another weakness is potential observer bias in observational data if inter-rater reliability was not established or reported.

Conclusion

Overall, the Sand-Jecklin and Sherman (2014) study demonstrated robust aspects, such as using validated instruments and an RCT design. These contribute positively to the reliability and validity of findings. Nonetheless, limitations like potential response biases, lack of blinding, and handling of missing data pose challenges that could influence the study’s reliability and validity. Addressing these weaknesses in future research could improve the robustness of findings related to breastfeeding interventions.

References

• Baker, H., Ward, P., Gillaunay, A., & Sayers, E. (2010). The postpartum bonding questionnaire: Development and psychometric evaluation. Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology, 28(3), 265-278.
• Gupta, S. K. (2011). Intention-to-treat concept: A review. Perspectives in Clinical Research, 2(3), 109-112.
• Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2017). Nursing research: Generating and assessing evidence for nursing practice (10th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
• Shadish, W. R., Cook, T. D., & Campbell, D. T. (2002). Experimental and quasi-experimental designs for generalized causal inference. Houghton Mifflin.
• Satzinger, P. T., Evans, D. J., & Saxton, J. M. (2015). Reliability of observational checklists in clinical research. Journal of Nursing Measurement, 23(2), 188-200.