A bibliographic analysis of postgraduate theses using the health belief model in the field of midwifery in Turkey

Abstract

Introduction. Midwifery is a universal healthcare discipline that holistically addresses the physiological, psychological, and social needs of women and their families. The Health Belief Model (HBM) is the oldest and most frequently used theoretical model used to explain the factors that shape individuals’ health behaviours, their search for medical care, and symptom management.

Objective. The objective of this study is to examine postgraduate theses in the field of midwifery in Turkey that use the Health Belief Model (HBM) through bibliometric analysis.

Material and Method. This research was conducted retrospectively and descriptively. In order to access theses, the Higher Education Institution National Thesis Centre search engine was searched using the keywords ‘Health Belief Model’ and ‘midwifery’ in both Turkish and English. As a result of the scans conducted, seven postgraduate thesis studies utilising the Health Belief Model in the field of midwifery, which are accessible and meet the inclusion criteria, were examined within the scope of the research up to the year 2026. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS 26 software, and descriptive statistical methods were employed in their evaluation.

Findings. The vast majority of theses were master’s theses (86.7%), while doctoral theses accounted for 13.3%. The studies were conducted between 2017 and 2026, with the highest number of theses completed in 2019. A significant portion of the theses were conducted at Istanbul University and Manisa Celal Bayar University. When examining the research designs, it was observed that the majority of the studies were descriptive in nature, although semi-experimental and experimental studies also played an important role. While the sample groups consisted mainly of healthy women, it was determined that the majority of the studies focused on early diagnosis and screening.

Conclusion. The model was used effectively in all theses examined within the scope of the research, yielding positive results. In recent years, studies using the Health Belief Model in the field of midwifery have been increasing; however, there is still a need for experimental, qualitative, and mixed-method studies, particularly at the doctoral level.