The Effect of Journaling on Prenatal Attachment in Pregnant Women

Summary Scientific Merit: Pregnancy is one of the periods in which a woman experiences the most intense physical and psychological changes. During this process, the mother's emotional bond with her baby is a key factor determining the postpartum mother-infant relationship and psychological well-being. Strong prenatal attachment is associated with a healthy mother-infant relationship, positive parenting attitudes, and a reduction in postpartum depression. Journaling is a simple yet effective method that helps individuals recognize their emotions, cope with stress, and express themselves. However, evidence-based research evaluating the effect of journaling during pregnancy on prenatal attachment is quite limited in our country. This project aims to make an original contribution to the literature by examining the effect of journaling among second- and third-trimester pregnant women on increasing prenatal attachment. This project aims to fill this gap by examining the effect of journaling on prenatal attachment levels in women in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. The findings obtained from the study will provide scientific evidence for low-cost psychosocial interventions that can be applied during pregnancy. In this way, a "holistic approach" dimension will be added to midwifery care, contributing to strengthening the mother-infant bond. Method: The research is experimental in nature and will be conducted using a randomized controlled design. The study will be carried out in collaboration with the İstanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Health Sciences, and the sample will consist of volunteer pregnant women between the 13th and 36th weeks of gestation who present to the antenatal outpatient clinic. The experimental group will be given a "Diary" created by the researchers for 4 weeks and asked to keep a journal. Participants will be asked to write at least 4 times over the course of 4 weeks (about emotions, thoughts regarding the baby, worries, hopes, and expr