Effect of Motivational Interviewing Training on Mothers' Anxiety and Children's Constipation

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.