Study Description (Brief Summary) Functional constipation (FC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in children. It is a widespread bowel condition characterized by persistent difficulty, incomplete, or infrequent defecation without an organic, endocrine, or metabolic cause. The prevalence of functional constipation in childhood ranges between 5% and 30%. The preschool period is considered a risk factor for functional constipation, as children experience new beginnings and spend extended time away from home due to school. During this period, mothers may experience increased anxiety. The aim of this study is to reduce maternal anxiety and improve children's constipation symptoms through a constipation training program based on motivational interviewing delivered to mothers.
Constipation is a common problem in children and can cause discomfort and anxiety for both the child and the family. This study aims to help mothers manage their children's constipation symptoms through a training program based on motivational interviewing. The program focuses on improving mothers' knowledge, motivation, and confidence in supporting their children's healthy bowel habits. The study also examines whether this approach reduces mothers' anxiety levels. The results are expected to contribute to better management of constipation in children and improved family well-being.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
50
Structured educational sessions delivered to mothers using motivational interviewing techniques, aiming to reduce maternal anxiety and improve children's constipation symptoms
Preschools Affiliated with the Ministry of National Education
Karaman, Centre, Turkey (Türkiye)
Defecation Frequency
The number of defecations per week will be recorded to assess changes in bowel movement frequency during the study. According to the Rome IV criteria, the weekly defecation frequency must be more than two times per week in order not to be classified as functional constipation.
Time frame: From baseline to the end of the fourth week, with assessments conducted at the end of the first, second, third, and fourth weeks.
Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS)
Stool consistency will be assessed using the Bristol Stool Form Scale to evaluate changes over the intervention period. Seven stool types are classified. Types 1 and 2 (scores 1 and 2) indicate hard stools, which are associated with constipation; Types 3, 4, and 5 (scores 3, 4, and 5) represent normal stool forms; and Types 6 and 7 (scores 6 and 7) indicate loose or watery stools, typically observed in diarrhea.
Time frame: From baseline to the end of the fourth week, with assessments conducted at the end of the first, second, third, and fourth weeks.
Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-T)
Maternal trait anxiety will be assessed using the Trait Anxiety Inventory Form. The change in scores from baseline to post-intervention will be analyzed. The total score obtained from the scale ranges from 20 to 80. Higher scores indicate higher levels of anxiety, whereas lower scores indicate lower levels of anxiety.
Time frame: From baseline to the end of the fourth week, with assessments conducted at the end of the first and fourth weeks.
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