Psychosocial predictors of postnatal depression

Depression is common among disadvantaged rural women. It is unlikely that postnatal depression is caused solely by physical changes such as hormone fluctuations. It is more likely that depression is best understood in terms of interplay between mothers and partners, friends and family members. Postnatal depression is a serious condition that leads to social, emotional, and psychological morbidity (Bennett & Indman, 2003). The purpose of this study is to examine the relationships among social support, postnatal stress, income and self-esteem as predictors of postnatal depression in rural women in West Virginia communities. Ramona Mercer's theory of Maternal Role Attainment guides this study. Women (150) will be recruited from three local obstetrical practices. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES) will measure self-esteem, the Post Partum Support Questionnaire (PSQ) will measure perceived social support specific to the postpartum period, the Hung Postpartum Stress Scale (HPSS) will measure perceivedpostpartum stressors, and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) will measure incidence of postnatal depression. A demographic data sheet will be used. Permission will be obtained from Ball State University and the participating clinics. The findings of this study will provide information about psychosocial factors in postnatal depression in rural areas.School of NursingThesis (M.S.