Parenthood motivation scale: psychometric properties of Turkish version and comparison between fertile and infertile women

Abstract

Compared to natural conception, being a parent via assisted reproductive techniques (ART) may have some unique characteristics and motivational bases. In this study, Turkish adaptation of the Parenthood Motivation Scale (PMS) was conducted. The factor structure and psychometric properties of the scale were examined with a sample of pregnant women (N = 457) who conceived naturally (n = 272) or via ART (n = 185). Like the original scale, findings demonstrated a six-factor structure (i.e. continuity, nurturance, relationship, identity, social pressure, and materialism) and it is a reliable measure. The two groups of expectant mothers were compared to investigate whether the scale successfully differentiates them in terms of bases of parenthood motivation. After controlling for the effects of covariates, multivariate analysis of covariance revealed that PMS successfully differentiates the women with different conception types. The participants who were impregnated via ART had significantly higher motivations in terms of identity and social pressure dimensions, and overall parenthood motivation. These findings might be associated with the collectivist nature of Turkish culture and emphasized the importance of working on these external bases of parenthood motivations to reduce infertile women's stress concerning having children.