Adaptation of the Barkin scale of maternal functioning and examination of the psychometric properties.

Evaluation of the maternal function is important not only for the mother and the baby but for the family health, as well. The aim of the researchers was to examine the Barkin Index of Maternal Function (BIMF) to Turkish Culture. Two hundred thirty-five postpartum women participated in the study. As a result of exploratory factor analysis of the scale, we decided that it should be 5-factor. Fit indexes of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were determined as Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) 0.05, Non-normed Fit Index (NNFI) 0.94, Comparative Fit Index (CFI) 0.96, and Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) 0.91. Overall, Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of the scale was 0.73. BIMF was determined as a reliable and valid tool for Turkish society. Since giving birth to a baby is related not only with the new mother but also with her relatives, it is one of the biggest change eras in a woman's life. This new era brings new changes into the mother's life in terms of physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects.