Status : Verified
Personal Name De La Calzada, Cleyanne Ysabel Nenita K.
Resource Title A Case Study on the Effect of Workplace Lactation Station Design on the Breastfeeding Experience of Working Mothers in Selected Bank Offices
Date Issued 23 May 2018
Abstract The issue today is that there is an existing trend in breastfeeding cessation before the recommended breastfeeding length, of which the return to work is the most cited reason. The purpose of this study is to find out if workplace lactation station design has bearing on the length of breastfeeding, and consequently, what interior designers should prioritize when designing the workplace lactation station in order to make it conducive to breastfeeding. This study was undertaken through a case study approach and is consequently qualitative in nature. Three bank-sector companies A, B, and C--of which are deemed breastfeeding-friendly according to testimonials-- and two outlier companies participated, with special focus given to Company A. A survey questionnaire was distributed to the selected companies, however a walkthrough and photo-documentation was conducted in Company A. It was revealed that the selected working mothers continue to breastfeed either out of a perceived need to breastfeed (biological or a mother's determination) or because the workplace culture and facilities make breastfeeding more convenient. The Company A's lactation station was deemed well-designed: it is conducive for breastfeeding in that it reduces stress in its users, which according to the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Theory improves physiological and emotional states, and consequently, the breastfeeding experience. Based on the findings of the study, design elements which are to be prioritized in the lactation station are that of privacy, cleanliness, and functionality, whereas aesthetics/decoration are of least priority. It was revealed that good lactation station design might have bearing on the decision to continue breastfeeding, as Company A has good lactation station design and all its respondents were able to sustain breastfeeding post-return to work. In addition, workplace support plays a role as well, as the companies with higher rank in terms of workplace support had higher rates of sustained breastfeeding. Thus, workplace lactation station design does play a role in breastfeeding promotion, and could influence a working mother's decision to continue breastfeeding. Further studies may include a larger sample size--going beyond the bank industry, into other commercial sectors-- in order to generalize findings. Richer qualitative data may be garnered from interviews, as well as extending the scope to companies that do not offer lactation stations, to gain other perspectives. Lastly, further studies could look into the quantitative aspects such as amount of milk, rate of productive output in nursing employees, etc.
Degree Course Bachelor of Science in Interior Design
Language English
Keyword bank office; breastfeeding; breastfeeding station; lactation station; Office decoration--Philippines
Material Type Thesis/Dissertation
Preliminary Pages
185.21 Kb