An exploration of the contributions of posttraumatic growth following postnatal depression, perceived social support and current depression to the strength of the maternal bond

Background: Postnatal depression (PND) has been found to have detrimental effects on the mother-infant (M-I) relationship, parenting and maternal bond (MB). Objective: To explore some of the factors that may have an association with the strength of the M-I relationship, parenting or MB. These include factors within the individual such as posttraumatic growth (PTG), PND, current depression and perceived social support as well as external factors such as the impact of treating PND on the M-I relationship and parenting. Method: Electronic databases were used to conduct a systematic review on the current available evidence to assess the impact of treating PND on the M-I relationship and parenting. In addition, a quantitative research study was conducted using a cross-sectional design to explore whether the presence of PTG following PND contributes to the MB whilst controlling for social support and current depression. Participants (N=98) for this study were recruited online and completed measures of MB, PTG, perceived social support and current depression. Results: Systematic Review: eight papers met the inclusion criteria, of which, five papers were rated as methodologically ‘strong’ and three were rated as ‘moderate’ in relation to the review aims. There were some consistent findings suggesting the positive impact of treating PND on both the M-I relationship and parenting. Quantitative research study: Results showed that PTG can be achieved following PND. In addition, of the variables included, current depression was the strongest indicator of the strength of MB. Conclusion: The need for further investigation into variables that contribute to the strength of all aspects of the mother-child relationship has been highlighted within this thesis portfolio. A greater understanding into these variables could inform the expansion of interventions to better suit the needs of postnatally depressed women and their children