The Maternal–Infant Bond: Clarifying the Concept

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide a description of bonding as a concept using Walker and Avant's (2005) concept analysis guidelines. Data sources include dictionaries and online health databases. Data synthesis revealed frequent misuse of the term attachment to represent the concept of bonding. There are distinct differences between attachment and bonding and the current nursing diagnosis Risk for impaired attachment more accurately represents the concept of bonding. Revision of this NANDA-I diagnosis may improve diagnosis identification, interventions, and nursing care for mothers and children.