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Trespalacios F, Boyle A, Serravalle L, Hodgins S, Ellenbogen MA. The perceived social support of parents having bipolar disorder impacts their children's mental health: a 10-year longitudinal study. Int J Bipolar Disord 2024; 12:27. [PMID: 39066987 PMCID: PMC11283441 DOI: 10.1186/s40345-024-00349-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The offspring of parents with bipolar disorder (OBD) are at higher risk of developing psychopathology than the offspring of parents with no affective disorder (control). In addition to genetic predisposition, childhood adversity and a stressful family environment are important risk factors for the OBD. Protective factors in parents, such as social support and coping strategies, may buffer the effects of stress on at-risk children. This study tested whether parents' social support and coping style attenuated the link between risk status (OBD vs. control) and psychopathology in offspring. METHODS During offspring's middle childhood, parents underwent a diagnostic interview and completed social support and coping style questionnaires. Sixty-nine OBD (39 female) and 69 control (29 female) offspring between ages 13 and 29 completed a diagnostic interview approximately 10 years later. RESULTS Parents' social support satisfaction moderated the link between offspring risk status and their development of substance use disorder (SUD) symptoms (F(1,131) = 5.90, p = .017). Parents' social network size moderated the link between offspring risk status and their development of anxiety and depression symptoms in an unexpected direction (F(1,131) = 5.07, p = .026). No effects of parents' coping style were found. CONCLUSIONS Among the OBD, having parents with greater social support satisfaction and, unexpectedly, a smaller social network buffered their development of SUD and depression and anxiety symptoms by early adulthood. Parents' social support may thus have a protective function for children in these high-risk families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Trespalacios
- Centre for Research in Human Development, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada.
| | - Ariel Boyle
- Centre for Research in Human Development, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Lisa Serravalle
- Centre for Research in Human Development, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Sheilagh Hodgins
- Département de Psychiatrie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mark A Ellenbogen
- Centre for Research in Human Development, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
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Li B, Zhao M, Zhu Z, Zhao H, Zhang X, Wang J, Zeng T, Yuan M. The Childbearing sense of coherence scale (CSOC-scale): development and validation. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1613. [PMID: 38886687 PMCID: PMC11181555 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19109-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND the salutogenic theory is essential to explain an individual's ability to maintain health during the perinatal period. While previous studies mainly focused on the perspectives from a family-level orientation and a global orientation, the purpose of the present study was to develop and validate a scale, the childbearing sense of coherence scale (CSOC-scale) from the individual's perceptions of the stresses, resources, and meaningfulness of childbearing. METHODS A total of 3 separate studies contributed to the development of the CSOC-scale between July 2022 and February 2023. In study 1, the initial item pool based on the conceptual framework of the childbearing sense of coherence and the salutogenic theory was developed. Delphi expert consultation was conducted to revise and improve items. Studies 2 and 3 were cross-sectional studies. In study 2, item analysis and explore factor analysis (EFA) (N = 351 for women, N = 256 for men) were used to screen items. In study 3, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and reliability analysis (N = 366 for women, N = 308 for men) were used to test the fit indices and reliability of the final scale. RESULTS final analysis suggested the CSOC-scale includes three factors, consisting of 13 items. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated good model fit (χ2 = 157.448, df = 62, χ2/ df = 2.539, RMSEA = 0.065, CFI = 0.974, TLI = 0.968, SRMR = 0.029 for women; χ2 = 181.363, df = 62, χ2/ df = 2.925, RMSEA = 0.079, CFI = 0.968, TLI = 0.960, SRMR = 0.033 for men) and high factor loadings (from 0.751 to 0.929 for women; from 0.746 to 0.947 for men). Internal consistency (Cronbach's α ranging from 0.895 to 0.933 for women and 0.881 to 0.945 for men in three dimensions; Cronbach's α was 0.919 for women and 0.821 for men in the entire instrument) and split-half reliability (Spearman-Brown coefficients ranging from 0.876 to 0.921 for women and 0.841 to 0.937 for men in three dimensions; Spearman-Brown coefficient was 0.744 for women and 0.785 for men in the entire instrument) were excellent. CONCLUSIONS the CSOC-scale has robust psychometric properties. It is reliable and valid in evaluating the childbearing sense of coherence in women and men during pregnancy. Utilisation of this scale can help healthcare professionals understand the health maintenance competencies of couples during the transition of parenthood and provide health promotion services from a salutogenic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingbing Li
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Meizhen Zhao
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zining Zhu
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Huimin Zhao
- College of Nursing, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jingxin Wang
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Tieying Zeng
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Mengmei Yuan
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Gingras AS, Brassard A, Péloquin K, Lafontaine MF, Brault-Labbé A, Gosselin P. Anxiety and depressive symptoms in first-time parents: A dyadic longitudinal study based on attachment theory. J Affect Disord 2024; 355:122-130. [PMID: 38552919 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to examine the temporal and dyadic associations between anxiety and depressive symptoms during the transition to parenthood (TTP), while exploring the antecedence of attachment insecurities in these associations. METHOD Couples of first-time parents (N = 211) completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the Experiences in Close Relationships scale, and a sociodemographic questionnaire during the second trimester of pregnancy and at four and twelve months postpartum. RESULTS Both prenatal anxiety and depressive symptoms predicted postnatal depressive and anxiety symptoms. Prenatal attachment-related anxiety predicted higher postnatal anxiety and depressive symptoms whereas prenatal attachment-related avoidance predicted higher postnatal depressive symptoms only. Parents whose partners had a higher level of prenatal attachment-related anxiety experienced higher postnatal anxious and depressive symptoms via their own's prenatal depressive symptoms. Parents whose partners had a higher level of prenatal attachment-related avoidance experienced higher postnatal depressive symptoms via their own's prenatal anxious symptoms. No gender differences were found for these associations. LIMITATIONS The sample was predominantly composed of educated heterosexual French-Canadian Caucasian couples and all measures were self-reported. CONCLUSIONS Our original findings suggest that professionals should routinely screen for anxiety and depressive symptoms in both partners from pregnancy up to one year postpartum. Also, our findings suggest addressing attachment insecurities with both partners to prevent the development of future symptoms during pregnancy or after childbirth. Finally, our study supports the relevance of considering these symptoms at subclinical levels during the TTP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Audrey Brassard
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
| | | | | | | | - Patrick Gosselin
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
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Murray-Perdue SA, Conway A, Feinberg ME. Couple relationship functioning and social adjustment during the transition to parenthood among fathers with a history of maltreatment. FAMILY PROCESS 2024. [PMID: 38813791 DOI: 10.1111/famp.13019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Study of fathers has gained significant traction over recent decades. However, the experience for men over the transition to parenthood remains focused on high-socioeconomic and socially advantaged fathers. Researchers have yet to thoroughly investigate how fathers may uniquely experience this transition period with a history of childhood maltreatment, given that childhood abuse is known to impact several components of development and relationship functioning into adulthood. The current study endeavored to fill this gap by evaluating the associations between fathers' childhood experiences of physical and emotional abuse and their relationship functioning over the transition to parenthood in terms of both the couple relationship and social adjustment in relationships with others. Using data from 399 fathers who participated in a randomized control trial during pregnancy, the results from stepwise regressions indicate fathers with a history of emotional abuse experience particular declines in their external relationships (reductions in social support and increases in social stress) from prenatal (Wave 1) to postpartum (Wave 2) reports. However, no significant association emerged between fathers' history of maltreatment and their relationship functioning with their partners. These results underscore the importance of investigating the impact of different types of abuse on men in fatherhood. Moreover, we emphasize the need to study further fathers' social adjustment over the transition to parenthood beyond the couple relationship and broad social support to address the needs of men with a history of maltreatment in their new role as fathers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha A Murray-Perdue
- Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Andrew Conway
- Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mark E Feinberg
- Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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Chen JH, Husa RA, Jonson-Reid M, Parrish JW. Risk and Protective Factors for Parental Involvement and Early Indicators of School Achievement in Alaska. Matern Child Health J 2024; 28:926-934. [PMID: 38182833 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03872-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Parental involvement can affect child school readiness, which in turn influences subsequent child learning outcomes. While social support, stress, caregiver psychological distress, and drinking could affect parental involvement, it is unknown whether and how these factors influence downstream child learning outcomes through parental involvement and child school readiness. This study tests those associations. METHODS Using de-identified data provided by the Alaska Longitudinal Child Abuse and Neglect Linkage project (N = 683), we use Structural Equation Modeling to assess direct and indirect effects of paths embedded in the proposed model. RESULTS This study found statistically significant indirect effects: (1) path linking stress faced by caregivers to child reading proficiency through caregiver psychological distress, parental involvement, and child school readiness, (2) path linking stress faced by caregivers to child reading proficiency through caregiver drinking, parental involvement, and child school readiness, and (3) path linking social support for caregivers to child reading proficiency through caregiver psychological distress, parental involvement, and child school readiness. Post-estimation showed that the sum of the magnitude of total effects of stress and the magnitude of total effects of support is significantly larger than either alone. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE Findings suggest that reducing caregiver stress and offering social support could not only benefit caregivers but learning outcomes of their children as well. For child learning outcomes, simultaneously reducing stress and offering social support for caregivers, rather than just one of them alone, is suggested. These results are important for children, particularly for those raised by caregivers experiencing psychological distress or drinking issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hong Chen
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Dr, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | - Robyn A Husa
- Providence Research Network, Providence Health & Services, 4400 NE Halsey St., Bldg 2, Portland, OR, 97213, USA
| | - Melissa Jonson-Reid
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Dr, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Jared W Parrish
- Section of Women's, Children's and Family Health, Division of Public Health, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, 3601 C St., Suite 358, Anchorage, AK, 99503, USA
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Daneshnia N, Chechko N, Nehls S. Do Parental Hormone Levels Synchronize During the Prenatal and Postpartum Periods? A Systematic Review. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2024:10.1007/s10567-024-00474-7. [PMID: 38615295 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-024-00474-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Physiological synchrony is the phenomenon of linked physiological processes among two or more individuals. Evidence of linkage between dyads has been found among a broad range of physiological indices, including the endocrine systems. During the transition to parenthood, both men and women undergo hormonal changes that facilitate parenting behavior. The present review sought to address the question as to whether hormonal synchronization occurs among expecting or new parents. A systematic literature search yielded 13 eligible records. The evidence of cortisol synchrony during the prenatal period, with additional testosterone, prolactin, and progesterone covariations in the time leading up to childbirth, was found to be most significant. During the postpartum period, parental synchrony was reported for oxytocin, testosterone, and cortisol levels. The implications of these covariations were found to translate into adaptive parenting behaviors and the facilitation of romantic bond. Associations with infant development were also reported, suggesting far-reaching effects of hormonal synchrony outside the parental dyad. The results highlight the importance of physiological interrelatedness during this sensitive period, underscoring the need for further research in this field. In view of the limited data available in this research domain, we have put forward a framework for future studies, recommending the adoption of standardized research protocols and repeated collections of specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Daneshnia
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Natalia Chechko
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Brain and Behavior (INM-7), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Susanne Nehls
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine: JARA-Institute Brain Structure Function Relationship (INM-10), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
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Napolitano SC, Balling CE, Peckinpaugh I, Samuel DB, Lane SP. Perceived social support attenuates increased hostile reactions to traumatic threat. J Clin Psychol 2023; 79:2566-2582. [PMID: 37435952 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Extant literature has seldom examined the naturalistic role of reaction to threat on downstream emotional distress while also considering buffers, such as perceived social support, to acute negative mental health outcomes. The present study examined how trauma symptoms, in reaction to a global stressor, predicted increased psychological distress via elevated emotional hostility and whether perceived social support modified such effects. We predicted a priori that increased exposure to trauma would be associated with increased hostility and global psychological distress, but that this path would be attenuated by greater levels of perceived social support, as individuals who report greater support exhibit greater emotional coping. METHODS We recruited 408 adults from a large university in the Midwestern United States to participate in a survey assessing past-week trauma, hostility, distress, and perceived social support following the initial COVID-19 lockdown. The survey was conducted in March 2020, directly after strict shelter-in-place orders were locally mandated. To test our hypotheses, we employed a moderated mediation analysis approach. RESULTS Results demonstrate that higher trauma predicted increased hostility, which in turn predicted increased distress, and trauma predicted distress via hostility (an indirect effect). As hypothesized, higher perceived social support attenuated the association between trauma and hostility. CONCLUSION Results support a hostile emotional pathway that may increase distress in the context of increased traumatic impact; however, social support likely buffers these effects, particularly in the face of new or novel threats and stressors. Findings suggest broad application for understanding the relation between the introduction of stressors, psychological distress, and social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Napolitano
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - C E Balling
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - I Peckinpaugh
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - D B Samuel
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - S P Lane
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Marx W, Manger SH, Blencowe M, Murray G, Ho FYY, Lawn S, Blumenthal JA, Schuch F, Stubbs B, Ruusunen A, Desyibelew HD, Dinan TG, Jacka F, Ravindran A, Berk M, O'Neil A. Clinical guidelines for the use of lifestyle-based mental health care in major depressive disorder: World Federation of Societies for Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (ASLM) taskforce. World J Biol Psychiatry 2023; 24:333-386. [PMID: 36202135 PMCID: PMC10972571 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2022.2112074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary objectives of these international guidelines were to provide a global audience of clinicians with (a) a series of evidence-based recommendations for the provision of lifestyle-based mental health care in clinical practice for adults with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and (b) a series of implementation considerations that may be applicable across a range of settings. METHODS Recommendations and associated evidence-based gradings were based on a series of systematic literature searches of published research as well as the clinical expertise of taskforce members. The focus of the guidelines was eight lifestyle domains: physical activity and exercise, smoking cessation, work-directed interventions, mindfulness-based and stress management therapies, diet, sleep, loneliness and social support, and green space interaction. The following electronic bibliographic databases were searched for articles published prior to June 2020: PubMed, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Cochrane Methodology Register), CINAHL, PsycINFO. Evidence grading was based on the level of evidence specific to MDD and risk of bias, in accordance with the World Federation of Societies for Biological Psychiatry criteria. RESULTS Nine recommendations were formed. The recommendations with the highest ratings to improve MDD were the use of physical activity and exercise, relaxation techniques, work-directed interventions, sleep, and mindfulness-based therapies (Grade 2). Interventions related to diet and green space were recommended, but with a lower strength of evidence (Grade 3). Recommendations regarding smoking cessation and loneliness and social support were based on expert opinion. Key implementation considerations included the need for input from allied health professionals and support networks to implement this type of approach, the importance of partnering such recommendations with behaviour change support, and the need to deliver interventions using a biopsychosocial-cultural framework. CONCLUSIONS Lifestyle-based interventions are recommended as a foundational component of mental health care in clinical practice for adults with Major Depressive Disorder, where other evidence-based therapies can be added or used in combination. The findings and recommendations of these guidelines support the need for further research to address existing gaps in efficacy and implementation research, especially for emerging lifestyle-based approaches (e.g. green space, loneliness and social support interventions) where data are limited. Further work is also needed to develop innovative approaches for delivery and models of care, and to support the training of health professionals regarding lifestyle-based mental health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Marx
- Deakin University, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Sam H Manger
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Queensland, Australia
- Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark Blencowe
- Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Greg Murray
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fiona Yan-Yee Ho
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Sharon Lawn
- Lived Experience Australia Ltd, Adelaide, Australia
- Flinders University, College of Medicine and Public Health, Adelaide, Australia
| | - James A. Blumenthal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham NC 27710
| | - Felipe Schuch
- Department of Sports Methods and Techniques, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anu Ruusunen
- Deakin University, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Hanna Demelash Desyibelew
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Felice Jacka
- Deakin University, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Arun Ravindran
- Department of Psychiatry & Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto. Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Adrienne O'Neil
- Deakin University, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
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Mangin-Heimos KS, Strube M, Taylor K, Galbraith K, O’Brien E, Rogers C, Lee CK, Ortinau C. Trajectories of Maternal and Paternal Psychological Distress After Fetal Diagnosis of Moderate-Severe Congenital Heart Disease. J Pediatr Psychol 2023; 48:305-316. [PMID: 35976135 PMCID: PMC10118854 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsac067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare trajectories of maternal and paternal psychological distress after prenatal diagnosis of fetal moderate-severe congenital heart disease (CHD), from pregnancy through early-mid infancy. METHODS Pregnant women who received a prenatal diagnosis of fetal moderate-severe CHD, and their partners, were enrolled in a prospective, longitudinal study. Symptoms of psychological distress were measured twice during pregnancy and twice after birth, using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-42). Patterns and predictors of psychological distress were examined using generalized hierarchical linear modeling. RESULTS Psychological distress was present in 42% (18/43) of mothers and 22% (8/36) of fathers at least once during the study. The rates of distress did not differ between mothers and fathers. There was also no change in probability of distress over time or difference in distress trajectories between mothers and fathers. However, individual trajectories demonstrated considerable variability in symptoms for both mothers and fathers. Predictors of psychological distress included low social support for mothers and a history of mental health conditions for fathers. CONCLUSIONS Parents who receive a prenatal diagnosis of fetal CHD commonly report symptoms of psychological distress from the time of diagnosis through early-mid infancy and display highly variable trajectories. These data suggest that early and repeated psychological screening is important once a fetal CHD diagnosis is made and that providing mental health and social support to parents may be an important component of their ongoing care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn S Mangin-Heimos
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
| | - Michael Strube
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
| | - Kaylin Taylor
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
| | | | - Erin O’Brien
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
| | - Cynthia Rogers
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
| | - Caroline K Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
| | - Cynthia Ortinau
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis, USA
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10
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Perceived social support in solo women seeking treatment with donor gametes and in women in heterosexual couples seeking IVF-treatment with own gametes. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2733. [PMID: 36792663 PMCID: PMC9931690 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29441-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Solo motherhood is a family constellation that is becoming increasingly common in high income countries. The demographic characteristics of solo women entering treatment with donated sperm or embryo have been shown to be different from that of cohabiting women. The general importance of perceived social support is frequently amplified when health and quality of life are concerned, and positively affects mental health status, experienced stress, perceived self-efficacy during the transition to parenthood and during parenthood itself. The objective of the present study was to compare demographic characteristics, social network and perceived social support among solo women and cohabiting women awaiting fertility treatment. This objective was explored with a study-specific demographic and background questionnaire as well as through questions on access to practical support and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) assessing different sources of support. This study is a part of a longitudinal prospective multicenter study of solo women who awaited donation treatment in six Swedish public and private fertility clinics and a comparison group of women who were cohabiting/married to male partner and awaited in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment with the couple's own gametes. A total of 670 women were invited and 463 accepted participation (69% response rate); 207 solo women (study group) and 256 cohabiting women (comparison group). The results show significant differences in age, education, and employment between the groups. Solo women were on average 3.6 years older, had a higher level of education, a higher-income profession, and were more frequently working full time. Solo women perceived an equally high degree of social support from their families, significantly higher levels of support from friends and significantly lower support from a significant other compared to cohabiting women. Solo women expected their mother to be the most supportive person in future parenthood, while cohabiting women most often stated their cohabiting partner to fill that role. The study adds to the body of knowledge of solo women as a sociodemographic distinct group going at motherhood alone, stating a high degree of currently perceived and expected social support. The previously studied negative impact that lack of a co-parent might have, may be attenuated by the expected and perceived social support from family and friends.
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Sufredini F, Catling C, Zugai J, Chang S. The effects of social support on depression and anxiety in the perinatal period: A mixed-methods systematic review. J Affect Disord 2022; 319:119-141. [PMID: 36108877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The social support offered to women in the perinatal period can buffer against depression and anxiety. The sources and types of support that reduce maternal levels of depression and anxiety are not well understood. AIMS To investigate the effects of structural and functional support on depression and anxiety in women in the perinatal period, and to explore the experiences of women around support during the perinatal period. METHOD A comprehensive search of six electronic databases was undertaken. Relevant studies published from January 2010 to April 2020 were included (PROSPERO reference number: CRD42020194228). Quantitative and qualitative studies were eligible if they reported the effects of, or had themes related to receiving functional or structural support in the perinatal period on women's levels of depression or anxiety. Qualitative data was synthesised using a thematic synthesis method. Quantitative data could not be pooled due to the lack of comparable RCTs or cohort studies and was thus presented in a narrative form. RESULTS Fifty-one articles (41 quantitative and 10 qualitative studies) were included. Analysis of quantitative studies demonstrated that insufficient support from partner, friends and family was associated with greater risk of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Distance-delivered interventions (via internet or telephone) diminished levels of depression and anxiety. Qualitative data revealed three overarching themes: appreciating all forms of support in the perinatal period, recognising appropriate and inappropriate support from health professionals and services, and having barriers to mobilising functional and structural support. LIMITATIONS Grey literature was not explored and search strategies only included English, Spanish and Portuguese language articles. The reviewed studies were heterogeneous and for this reason, quantitative assessments were not feasible. CONCLUSION Support from specific sources such as family members, friends who are also mothers, health professionals, neighbours, supervisors, co-workers and online communities still need to be further investigated. Implications for health professionals involved in the care of women in the perinatal period are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christine Catling
- Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Joel Zugai
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Midwifery and Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Australia
| | - Sungwon Chang
- Improving Care for Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
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12
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Du W, Shen Q, Fowler C, Li J, Wang X, Zhang M, Li X, Wan C, Yu L. Factors Associated With Parenting Stress in Parents of Children With Nephrotic Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2022; 62:466-473. [PMID: 36401510 DOI: 10.1177/00099228221138417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Limited empirical studies were identified to quantify parenting stress in parents of children with nephrotic syndrome (NS). This cross-sectional study aimed to address this gap by examining the prevalence and factors associated with parenting stress. Two hundred two Chinese parents of children with NS were investigated by using the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form (PSI-SF), the Parenting Sense of Competence Scale (PSCS), the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), and a demographic questionnaire. The results showed that parents of children with NS experienced higher parenting stress, and 67.8% of participants reported clinical levels of parenting stress. Fathers, parents with a primary education background, low social support and parenting sense of competence, and children with a prolonged treatment childhood NS reported higher parenting stress. Developing corresponding improvement interventions targeting parenting sense of competence, or providing extra disease-related support and education for parents might lessen parenting stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Du
- Zaozhuang Vocational College of Science and Technology, Zaozhuang, China.,Center for Nurturing Care Research, School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Quan Shen
- Center for Nurturing Care Research, School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | | | - Jia Li
- Center for Nurturing Care Research, School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuena Wang
- Center for Nurturing Care Research, School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Center for Nurturing Care Research, School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoqin Li
- Center for Nurturing Care Research, School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Changxiu Wan
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Liping Yu
- Center for Nurturing Care Research, School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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13
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Speyer LG, Hall HA, Hang Y, Hughes C, Murray AL. Within-family relations of mental health problems across childhood and adolescence. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:1288-1296. [PMID: 35075634 PMCID: PMC9787478 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While transactional models suggest that parent and child mental health reciprocally influence one another over development, research has largely focused on parent-to-child effects. Additionally, it is not known whether observed associations hold when appropriate statistical tools are used to operationalise within-family dynamics. METHODS We investigated within-family mental health dynamics using autoregressive latent trajectory models with structured residuals, stratified by child gender. Parental psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler (K6) scale, and children's internalising and externalising problems were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Both measures were administered at the age 3, 5, 7, 11, 14 and 17 waves of the Millennium Cohort Study (N = 10,746, ~50% female). RESULTS Maternal psychological distress was positively associated with subsequent internalising and externalising problems for girls but only with internalising problems for boys. Paternal psychological distress was associated with boys' later internalising and externalising problems during early adolescence. Among boys, internalising problems were associated with later maternal psychological distress, while externalising problems were associated with later paternal psychological distress. Among girls, internalising problems were associated with subsequent paternal psychological distress, while externalising problems were associated with later maternal psychological distress. Finally, maternal and paternal psychological distress showed negative bidirectional associations in early childhood but positive associations in middle childhood and early adolescence. CONCLUSIONS Findings support a transactional model of family mental health, with both child-to-parent and parent-to-child effects playing a role in the development of mental health difficulties. Mental health intervention efforts should, therefore, target the whole family system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Gabriela Speyer
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK,Department of PsychologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | - Yuzhan Hang
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Claire Hughes
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
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14
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Harrison V, Moulds ML, Jones K. Support from friends moderates the relationship between repetitive negative thinking and postnatal wellbeing during COVID-19. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2022; 40:516-531. [PMID: 33586544 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2021.1886260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence has linked repetitive negative thinking (RNT) to postnatal depression and anxiety, yet the factors moderating this relationship have been minimally investigated. During the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, social restrictions imposed to reduce viral transmission limited access to social support, which is critical to postnatal psychological wellbeing - potentially intensifying RNT. OBJECTIVE We examined whether perceived social support (from friends, family, and a significant other) played a moderating role in the relationship between RNT and maternal postnatal anxiety and depressive symptoms. METHODS A sample of women (N = 251) who had given birth in the preceding 12 months completed an online battery of standardised measures during the COVID-19 'lockdown' of May 2020. RESULTS As predicted, social support moderated the relationship between RNT and depression such that the association between RNT and depression was stronger for women who reported lower levels of social support. Interestingly, this finding emerged for social support from friends only; for support from family and significant other, social support did not play a moderating role. Further, and unexpectedly, overall social support did not moderate the relationship between RNT and postnatal anxiety, however, social support from friends was a significant moderator. CONCLUSIONS High levels of perceived social support from friends (but not family or significant others) buffered the effects of RNT on depression and anxiety during the postpartum period. Strategies to bolster peer social support may be a valuable inclusion in interventions to prevent and treat postnatal depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Harrison
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Michelle L Moulds
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katie Jones
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
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15
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Jones K, Harrison V, Moulds ML, Lazard L. A qualitative analysis of feelings and experiences associated with perinatal distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:572. [PMID: 35850668 PMCID: PMC9294838 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04876-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rates of perinatal mental health difficulties (experienced during pregnancy and the 12-months postpartum) increased worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the UK, anxiety and depression were estimated to affect more than half of perinatal women during the first national lockdown. However, little is known about women’s qualitative experiences of distress. This study aimed to extend published quantitative findings resulting from the same data set (Harrison et al., Women Birth xxxx, 2021; Harrison et al., J Reprod Infant Psychol 1–16, 2021) to qualitatively explore: 1) the feelings and symptoms associated with maternal perinatal distress during the COVID-19 pandemic; and 2) the associated sources of distress. Methods As part of an online survey during May 2020, 424 perinatal women responded to an open-ended question regarding a recent experience of distress. Qualitative data were analysed using an initial content analysis, followed by an inductive thematic analysis adopting a realist approach. Data were explored in the context of self-reported perinatal anxiety and depression symptoms. Results Initial content analysis of the data identified twelve distinct categories depicting participants’ feelings and symptoms associated with psychological distress. Despite the high rates of probable depression in the sample, women’s descriptions were more indicative of anxiety and general distress, than of symptoms traditionally related to depression. In terms of the associated psychosocial stressors, a thematic analysis identified five themes: Family wellbeing; Lack of support; Mothering challenges; Loss of control due to COVID-19; and Work and finances. Unsurprisingly given the context, isolation was a common challenge. Additionally, psychological conflict between maternal expectations and the reality of pregnancy and motherhood, loss of autonomy and control, and fears surrounding family health, safety, and wellbeing underlay many of the themes. Conclusions This study presents an array of feelings and symptoms expressed by perinatal mothers which may be useful to consider in relation to perinatal wellbeing. Furthermore, our data highlights several common sources of distress, including multiple COVID-19 specific factors. However, many were related to more general perinatal/maternal experiences. Our findings also point to considerations that may be useful in alleviating distress in pregnancy and early motherhood, including social support, realistic perinatal/maternal expectations, and support for those with perceived perinatal trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Jones
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK.
| | - Virginia Harrison
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | | | - Lisa Lazard
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
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16
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Darwiche J, Carneiro C, Vaudan C, Imesch C, Eira Nunes C, Favez N, de Roten Y. Parents in couple therapy: An intervention targeting marital and coparenting relationships. FAMILY PROCESS 2022; 61:490-506. [PMID: 35394059 PMCID: PMC9324095 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This article describes the treatment framework and core therapeutic principles of the integrative brief systemic intervention (IBSI), a manualized six-session intervention intended for parents seeking couple therapy. IBSI aims to work on the couple's presenting problem, considering its specific impact in the marital and coparenting domains. The basic premise of IBSI is to consider that, when working with couples who have children, therapeutic work on their coparenting alliance may be used as a lever, as both parents may be particularly motivated to improve their relationship for their children's benefit. Increasing the coparenting alliance may then facilitate work on deeper conflicts within the marital relationship. The core therapeutic principles of IBSI are: (1) joining with the couple as romantic partners and a coparenting team from the start of the therapeutic process; (2) supporting the parents in increasing their awareness regarding their children's behavior and emotional experiences when facing their parents' conflicts; and (3) working on the spill- and cross-over effects between marital and coparenting relationships (i.e., exploring how conflict or positivity spills over from one relationship to the other or crosses over from one partner to the other). Therapeutic work following these main therapeutic principles is expected to improve the quality of both relationships. A clinical case is provided to illustrate the core therapeutic principles of IBSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joëlle Darwiche
- Family and Development Research CenterFaculty of Social and Political SciencesUniversity of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Claudio Carneiro
- Institute of PsychotherapyDepartment of PsychiatryLausanne University Hospital and University of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
- Center for Family and Systemic Research (CERFASY)NeuchâtelSwitzerland
| | - Christel Vaudan
- Couple and Family ConsultationDepartment of PsychiatryLausanne University Hospital and University of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Camille Imesch
- Family and Development Research CenterFaculty of Social and Political SciencesUniversity of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Cindy Eira Nunes
- Family and Development Research CenterFaculty of Social and Political SciencesUniversity of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Nicolas Favez
- Faculty of Psychology and Education ScienceUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Yves de Roten
- Institute of PsychotherapyDepartment of PsychiatryLausanne University Hospital and University of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
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17
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van den Heuvel MI, Vacaru SV, Boekhorst MGBM, Cloin M, van Bakel H, Riem MME, de Weerth C, Beijers R. Parents of young infants report poor mental health and more insensitive parenting during the first Covid-19 lockdown. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:302. [PMID: 35397538 PMCID: PMC8994419 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04618-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Covid-19 pandemic has put an unprecedented pressure on families with children. How parents were affected by the first Covid-19 lockdown during the early postpartum period, an already challenging period for many, is unknown. AIM To investigate the associations between Covid-19 related stress, mental health, and insensitive parenting practices in mothers and fathers with young infants during the first Dutch Covid-19 lockdown. METHODS The Dutch Covid-19 and Perinatal Experiences (COPE-NL) study included 681 parents of infants between 0 and 6 months (572 mothers and 109 fathers). Parents filled out online questionnaires about Covid-19 related stress, mental health (i.e. anxiety and depressive symptoms), and insensitive parenting. Hierarchical regression models were used to analyze the data. RESULTS Parents of a young infant reported high rates of Covid-19 related stress, with higher reported stress in mothers compared to fathers. Additionally, the percentages of mothers and fathers experiencing clinically meaningful mental health symptoms during the pandemic were relatively high (mothers: 39.7% anxiety, 14.5% depression; fathers: 37.6% anxiety, 6.4% depression). More Covid-19 related stress was associated with more mental health symptoms in parents and increased insensitive parenting practices in mothers. CONCLUSIONS The results emphasize the strain of the pandemic on young fathers' and mothers' mental health and its potential negative consequences for parenting. As poor parental mental health and insensitive parenting practices carry risk for worse child outcomes across the lifespan, the mental health burden of the Covid-19 pandemic might not only have affected the parents, but also the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefania V Vacaru
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Myrthe G B M Boekhorst
- Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Madelon M E Riem
- Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Clinical Child & Family Studies, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carolina de Weerth
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roseriet Beijers
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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18
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Kochan M, Deliktas Demirci A, Kabukcuoglu K. The postpartum period during the COVID-19 pandemic: investigating Turkish women's postpartum support and postpartum-specific anxiety. J Perinat Med 2022; 50:261-269. [PMID: 34881549 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2021-0238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine how Turkish women were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in the postpartum period in terms of postpartum support and anxiety variables. METHODS The study was conducted with 130 women who gave birth during the COVID-19 period. Data were collected online using a personal information form, Postpartum Support Scale and Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale. Descriptive statistics were used, with Kruskal-Wallis and regression analysis performed. RESULTS All postpartum women stated that they were affected negatively by COVID-19. The most common issues described were feeling alone (25.51%), having economic difficulties (15.5%) and experiencing difficulties accessing health services (21.7%). The mean Postpartum Support Scale score was 102.43 ± 27.67, while the mean Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale score was 188.07 ± 96.71. COVID-19 exposure level had a significant effect on postpartum-specific anxiety (p=0.00). The variables of having a problem during pregnancy (p=0.006), having a baby willingly (p=0.007), and partner's educational status significantly predicted the degree of being affected by COVID-19 (p=0.025). The degree to which COVID-19 affected the women was determined by having problems during pregnancy, having a baby willingly, and a highly educated partner. CONCLUSIONS These variables may inform a resource to empower postpartum women during COVID-19. Healthcare systems need to be organised considering pandemic conditions to provide increased postpartum support, evaluate psychological health, deliver healthcare services, and consider pregnancy periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Kochan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Ayse Deliktas Demirci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Kamile Kabukcuoglu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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19
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Li P, Wang H, Feng J, Chen G, Zhou Z, Gou X, Ye S, Fan D, Liu Z, Guo X. Association Between Perceived Stress and Prenatal Depressive Symptoms: Moderating Effect of Social Support. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:3195-3204. [PMID: 34819730 PMCID: PMC8606966 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s341090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Prenatal depressive symptoms are an important mental health problem during pregnancy. We aimed to explore the moderating role of social support on the association between perceived stress and prenatal depressive symptoms. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at an obstetrics clinic. A total of 1846 women completed a self-administered questionnaire, with a response rate of 91.8%. Results Of the 1846 participants, 28.2% reported prenatal depressive symptoms (Edinburgh postnatal depression scale score ≥ 9). After adjusting for demographic characteristics, gestational age, exercise, and passive smoking, both perceived stress (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.210, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.178–1.242) and social support (AOR: 0.950, 95% CI: 0.932–0.968) were associated with prenatal depressive symptoms. Moreover, social support had a moderating effect on the association between perceived stress and prenatal depressive symptoms (p < 0.001), and pregnant women with low social support were more likely to be affected by stress and experience prenatal depressive symptoms. Conclusion Our study suggests that higher social support reduces the impact of stress on pregnant women, which in turn, decreases the risk of prenatal depressive symptoms. Therefore, interventions aimed at improving social support should be considered for the prevention and treatment of prenatal depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengsheng Li
- Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Biobank, Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinping Feng
- Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Gengdong Chen
- Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zixing Zhou
- Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Gou
- Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Biobank, Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoxin Ye
- Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Dazhi Fan
- Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengping Liu
- Foshan Fetal Medicine Research Institute, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoling Guo
- Department of Obstetrics, Affiliated Foshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, People's Republic of China
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20
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Braren SH, Perry RE, Ribner A, Brandes-Aitken A, Brito N, Blair C. Prenatal mother-father cortisol linkage predicts infant executive functions at 24 months. Dev Psychobiol 2021; 63:e22151. [PMID: 34674244 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated associations between prenatal mother-father cortisol linkage and infant executive functions. Data come from an international sample (N = 358) of predominantly white and middle- to upper-class first-time parents. During late pregnancy, parents collected diurnal salivary cortisol samples and reported on levels of psychological stress. At 24 months, children completed a battery of executive function tasks. Parent cortisol linkage was operationalized as the time-dependent, within-dyad association between maternal and paternal diurnal cortisol. Results indicated that prenatal linkage was positively related to infant executive functions, suggesting that stronger mother-father cortisol linkage was associated with higher executive function scores. Additionally, this relation was moderated by paternal average cortisol levels such that executive function scores were lower when fathers had higher average cortisol levels and linkage was weak. This association suggests that elevated paternal cortisol amplifies the negative relation between lower cortisol linkage and lower infant executive function scores. Importantly, these findings were observed while controlling for observational measures of caregiving and self-report measures of psychosocial functioning and infant social-emotional behavior. These results suggest that prenatal linkage of mother's and father's stress physiology plays a potentially important part in programming and regulating infant neurocognitive development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrew Ribner
- Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, USA
| | | | - Natalie Brito
- Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, USA
| | - Clancy Blair
- Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, USA
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- Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, USA.,Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, UK.,Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Leiden, The Netherlands
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21
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Cena L, Mirabella F, Palumbo G, Gigantesco A, Camoni L, Trainini A, Stefana A. Poor social support is associated with preterm birth rather than maternal prenatal anxiety and depression: a retrospective case-control study. Minerva Pediatr (Torino) 2021; 74:225-227. [PMID: 34647703 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5276.21.06348-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Cena
- Section of Neuroscience, Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy -
| | - Fiorino Mirabella
- Center for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Palumbo
- Center for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Gigantesco
- Center for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Camoni
- Center for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Trainini
- Section of Neuroscience, Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Stefana
- Section of Neuroscience, Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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22
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Yatziv T, Vancor EA, Bunderson M, Rutherford HJV. Maternal perinatal anxiety and neural responding to infant affective signals: Insights, challenges, and a road map for neuroimaging research. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:387-399. [PMID: 34563563 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety symptoms are common among women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, potentially having detrimental effects on both mother and child's well-being. Perinatal maternal anxiety interferes with a core facet of adaptive caregiving: mothers' sensitive responsiveness to infant affective communicative 'cues.' This review summarizes the current research on the neural correlates of maternal processing of infant cues in the presence of perinatal anxiety, outlines its limitations, and offers next steps to advance future research. Functional neuroimaging studies examining the neural circuitry involved in, and electrophysiological studies examining the temporal dynamics of, processing infant cues during pregnancy and postpartum are reviewed. Studies have generally indicated mixed findings, although emerging themes suggest that anxiety may be implicated in several stages of processing infant cues- detection, interpretation, and reaction- contingent upon cue valence. Limitations include inconsistent designs, lack of differentiation between anxiety and depression symptoms, and limited consideration of parenting-specific (versus domain-general) anxiety. Future studies should incorporate longitudinal investigation of multiple levels of analysis spanning neural, cognitive, and observed aspects of sensitive caregiving.
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23
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Biden EJ, Greenwood CJ, Macdonald JA, Spry EA, Letcher P, Hutchinson D, Youssef GJ, McIntosh JE, Olsson CA. Preparing for Future Adversities: Lessons From the COVID-19 Pandemic in Australia for Promoting Relational Resilience in Families. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:717811. [PMID: 34421689 PMCID: PMC8371315 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.717811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has placed considerable pressure on families, testing the quality of relationships and the strength of social support within and beyond the family network. However, little is known about the pre-pandemic factors that predict family relational resilience and social functioning during times of natural disaster or global crisis. Here we use data from one of Australia's longest running studies of social and emotional development to examine the nature and timing of possible relational and social support intervention aimed at preparing families for future adversities. Methods: Data were from the Australian Temperament Project Generation 3 (ATPG3) Study, a population representative three generation cohort study of families established in 1983. A subset of Generation 2 parents completed a COVID-19 specific survey in May-September 2020 (502 parents of 871 children; 60% mothers; 37-38 years). These participants had completed the Quality of Relationships Inventory to assess social support during young adulthood, at 23-24 years (2006) and 27-28 years (2010), before next generation conception. Participants had also completed the Maternity Social Support Scale 1 year postpartum for each child born across the ATPG3 assessment period (2012-2019). In 2020, during the height of the Australian lockdowns, participants rated the quality of their relationships with their partners, children and broader family and friends, in addition to social support within and extended beyond their family. Results: Pre-pandemic partner support was associated with partner relationship quality during the pandemic (β = 0.22). Pre-pandemic support from friends was associated with relationship quality with other family and friends during the pandemic (β = 0.12 - 0.18). Pre-pandemic support (from partner, family and friends) was consistently associated with social support within families during the pandemic (β = 0.11 - 0.21). Pre-pandemic support from friends was also associated with family support extended to others within their local community during the pandemic (β = 0.12 - 0.13). Conclusions: Strengthening supportive relationships during major life transitions, prior to the start of family life and in early parenthood, may have long-term and intergenerational benefits years into the future for both families and communities. This may promote resilience during future crises and other more normative stressful life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebony J. Biden
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher J. Greenwood
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacqui A. Macdonald
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A. Spry
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Primrose Letcher
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Delyse Hutchinson
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - George J. Youssef
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jennifer E. McIntosh
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- The Bouverie Centre, School of Psychology & Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Craig A. Olsson
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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24
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Ribner AD, McHarg G. Screens across the pond: Findings from longitudinal screen time research in the US and UK. Infant Behav Dev 2021; 63:101551. [PMID: 33706229 PMCID: PMC8172472 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2021.101551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Digital media are increasingly pervasive in the lives of young children. This increase in the availability of digital media might have long-run implications for child development; however, it is too soon to definitively conclude the direction of effects. In part due to this lack of certainty, leading health organizations have chosen to make different recommendations to parents of young children: Many international health organizations (e.g., the American Academy of Pediatrics, World Health Organization) recommend very young children be limited to under one hour of screen time daily, whereas others (e.g., Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health) have intentionally opted not to make recommendations about specific limits. These guidelines might contribute to parents in different countries making meaningfully different choices about children's use of digital media. Using a sample of N = 303 families recruited in Cambridgeshire, England and New York City prior to the birth of couples' first child, we explore predictors of digital media use across the first two years of life. Data were collected when children were 4, 14, and 24 months of age. Results of latent growth curve analyses show that generally, children spend more time engaging with digital media as they grow older; however, growth mixture models reveal most children fit into one of two classes: One group of children (High Media Users; 52.2 %) engages with a substantial amount of digital media, whereas the other (Low Media Users; 48.8 %) engages with relatively little. Children in the US were approximately 30 % more likely to be in the Low Media Users group and there were no differences in group membership on the basis of parents' psychosocial wellbeing. While these differences could be due to a number of factors, these findings may reflect the power of pediatric recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Ribner
- Learning Research and Development Center, University of Pittsburgh, 3939 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
| | - Gabrielle McHarg
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Free School Lane, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3RQ, United Kingdom.
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25
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Forbes LK, Lamar MR, Speciale M, Donovan C. Mothers' and fathers' parenting attitudes during COVID-19. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 41:470-479. [PMID: 33821115 PMCID: PMC8012411 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-01605-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Attitudes about parenting are derived from early socialization of gender role norms and often include intensive parenting beliefs, which give mothers an outsized role in parenting. This study examined the differences in intensive parenting beliefs among cisgender mothers and fathers during the United States COVID-19 response. Data from a sample of 1048 mothers and fathers were collected during March and April 2020 to understand parenting beliefs. Results indicated that some demographic factors, including gender and ethnicity, impact intensive parenting beliefs. Additionally, the number of COVID-19 cases in a state, along with school closure length, was related to intensive parenting beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa K Forbes
- Counseling Program, University of Colorado Denver, 1380 Lawrence Street, Denver, CO 80204 USA
| | - Margaret R Lamar
- Department of Counseling, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA USA
| | - Megan Speciale
- Department of Counseling, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA USA
| | - Courtney Donovan
- Research and Evaluation Methods Program, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO USA
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26
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Perceived social support and prenatal wellbeing; The mediating effects of loneliness and repetitive negative thinking on anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Women Birth 2021; 35:232-241. [PMID: 33422441 PMCID: PMC9051127 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Problem Prenatal depression and anxiety are linked to poor maternal and infant outcomes. We need to understand predictors of poor mental health to identify at-risk women, and targets for support. Background Previous research has demonstrated a relationship between low levels of perceived social support, and depression and anxiety in pregnant women. However, there is a lack of research into the factors that may mediate this relationship. Aim As social distancing measures (e.g., lockdown) are likely to negatively affect women’s perceived support in the prenatal period, we investigated the relationship between perceived social support and both anxiety and depression in UK-based pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, we examined two potential mediators that may contribute to psychological symptoms: repetitive negative thinking and loneliness. Methods We administered a battery of online measures to a sample of pregnant women (N = 205) between May-June 2020, during the first peak of the pandemic in the UK, when perceived social support was likely to be low. Results Consistent with predictions, perceived social support was significantly negatively related to depression, anxiety, loneliness and repetitive negative thinking. Furthermore, repetitive negative thinking and loneliness mediated the relationship between perceived social support and both depression and anxiety. Moreover, perceived social support and loneliness were associated with specific types of online behaviours. Conclusions Taken together, the findings shed light on the processes through which social support may exert its effects on depression and anxiety and highlight potential therapeutic targets for interventions which aim to prevent and treat mood disorders in perinatal cohorts.
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27
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Foley S, Álvarez C, McCarthy J, Hughes C. Two's Company, Three's a Crowd? Maternal and Paternal Talk About Their Infant Differs in Associations With Wellbeing, Couple Relationship Quality, and Caregiving Sensitivity. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:578632. [PMID: 33329119 PMCID: PMC7711085 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.578632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Problems of depression and anxiety are common in early parenthood and adversely affect parenting quality (1). Rumination is closely linked to poor wellbeing (2), suggesting that self-focus may be one mediator of the association between wellbeing and caregiving [e.g., (3)]. Framed within an international study of first-time mothers and fathers (4), the current study included 396 British mothers and fathers (in 198 heterosexual cohabiting couple relationships) of first-born 4-month-old infants. Parents reported on their symptoms of depression, anxiety and satisfaction in their couple relationship. Five-minute speech samples were transcribed and coded for parents' pronoun use (i.e., "I" and either infant- or partner-inclusive use of "We"), whilst observations in the Still-Face paradigm were coded for parental sensitivity to infants' cues. Our first goal was to test whether new parents' self-focus was associated with wellbeing and couple relationship quality. We also examined whether (i) self-focus mediated the expected association between wellbeing and caregiving sensitivity and (ii) couple relationship quality moderated the expected association between self-focus and caregiver sensitivity. Finally, we compared results for mothers and fathers. Our results illustrate gender-specific associations. First, although mean levels of self-focus and partner-inclusive talk were similar for mothers and fathers, infant-inclusive use of the "we" pronoun was higher in mothers than fathers. Second, self-focus was unrelated to either mothers' or fathers' wellbeing, but was associated with fathers' report of reduced couple relationship quality. In addition, poor perinatal wellbeing was associated with reduced partner-inclusive talk for fathers, but with reduced use of infant-inclusive talk for mothers. Third, mediation models suggest that reduced infant-inclusive talk underpins the association between poor wellbeing and reduced sensitivity in mothers, but not fathers. Fourth, in the context of good couple relationship quality, mothers' elevated partner-inclusive talk was associated with reduced caregiving sensitivity. These findings are discussed in terms of their implications for interventions to support new mothers and fathers, who may benefit from distinct strategies to foster attention to their developing infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Foley
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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28
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Missler M, van Straten A, Denissen J, Donker T, Beijers R. Effectiveness of a psycho-educational intervention for expecting parents to prevent postpartum parenting stress, depression and anxiety: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:658. [PMID: 33129314 PMCID: PMC7603696 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-03341-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The first months postpartum can be challenging for parents, leading to elevated symptoms of parenting stress, depression and anxiety. In turn, distressed parents are at higher risk for providing suboptimal quality of caregiving. As psychoeducational interventions can be effective in reducing psychological distress, the goal of this randomized controlled trial was to examine the effectiveness of low-intensity universal psychoeducational program to prevent postpartum parenting stress, and to enhance parental well-being and caregiving quality. METHOD Between 26 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, 138 pregnant women and 96 partners were randomized to the intervention or a waitlist control group. The intervention consisted of a booklet, a video, a home visit, and a telephone call. Information was provided on (1) sensitive responsiveness, adapting to the parental role, and attending to own needs; (2) crying patterns; (3) feeding (arrangements); and (4) sleeping (arrangements). The primary outcome was parenting stress postpartum. Secondary outcomes were additional measures of distress (depression and anxiety), parental well-being, and caregiving quality. RESULTS Both groups showed a rise in distress after birth. No between-group differences were observed on parenting stress, nor on the secondary outcomes. The intervention was rated as useful and of added value by the parents. CONCLUSION This study offered no evidence that our universal prevention program was effective in decreasing parental distress or in increasing caregiving quality. However, parents found aspects of the intervention useful. More research is needed, including a longer period of follow-up as well as observational measures of parents' responsiveness. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial has been registered on 15 September 2016 in the Netherlands National Trial Register, ID: NTR6065, https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/5782 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein Missler
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Section of Clinical Psychology & Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke van Straten
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Section of Clinical Psychology & Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Denissen
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tara Donker
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Section of Clinical Psychology & Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, Laboratory for Biological and Personality Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Straße 8, D-79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Roseriet Beijers
- Radboud University, Behavioural Science Institute, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition & Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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29
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Rollè L, Giordano M, Santoniccolo F, Trombetta T. Prenatal Attachment and Perinatal Depression: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E2644. [PMID: 32290590 PMCID: PMC7216181 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a period of complex bio-psychological changes, during which the development of an attachment bond to the fetus takes on a central role. Depressive symptoms are common during this period. Both symptoms of depression and low levels of prenatal attachment are related to negative outcomes in caregivers and infants. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement, this systematic review analyzes and systematizes 41 studies concerning the association between prenatal attachment and perinatal depression. The majority of the studies reported a significant association between the two. Specifically, prenatal depressive symptoms were found to be negatively associated with prenatal attachment. Furthermore, lower levels of prenatal attachment were related to higher postnatal depressive symptoms, although fewer studies assessed this association. While these results were found across different populations, conflicting findings emerged, suggesting they should be interpreted with caution, particularly in male samples and in non-normative pregnancies (e.g., high-risk pregnancies, medically assisted pregnancies, and pregnancies with previous perinatal losses). These results are clinically important for the perinatal screening process and for implementing preventive and treatment programs. However, future studies are needed to further confirm and generalize these results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maura Giordano
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy; (L.R.); (F.S.); (T.T.)
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