Postpartum Depression, Risk Factors, and Child’s Home Environment Among Mothers in a Home Visiting Program
Date
2017Author
Sampson, McClain
Duron, Jacquelynn F.
Mauldin, Rebecca L.
Kao, Dennis
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**Please note that the full text is embargoed** ABSTRACT: This paper provides an in-depth description of
predictors of elevated postpartum depression (PPD) symptoms
among mothers identified as high risk for committing
child maltreatment in a home visiting program. We also
examine how elevated PPD symptoms in early postpartum
affect subsequent maternal child interactions in the home
environment, a key measure of home visiting programs.
Secondary data analysis was conducted using a sample (n
= 4979) from a Healthy Families America program. Multiple
linear regression models examined predictors of elevated
PPD symptoms and logistic regression models
determined the effect of elevated PPD symptoms on the
home environment. Elevated PPD symptoms at 3 months
postpartum were predicted by elevated depressive symptoms
prenatally (OR = 4.34, 95% CI [3.46, 5.45]) and being
unemployed (OR = 1.37, 95% CI [1.18, 1.58]). Being
African American (OR = .83, 95% CI [.69, .99]) or not
having English as first language (OR = .51, 95% CI [.32,
.83]) were associated with decreased odds of elevated PPD
symptoms. In turn, elevated PPD symptoms were associated
with decreased overall home environment functioning at
12 months (β = −.87, 95% CI [−1.48, −.26]), particularly
in the domains of maternal acceptance (β = −.19, 95% CI
[−.36, −.03]) and involvement (β = −.24, 95% CI [−.39,
−.08]). Elevated PPD symptoms may have long-term
impact on home environment, including negative effects
on mother's acceptance of and involvement with her child.
Early screenings and treatment for PPD among mothers at
risk for committing child maltreatment are supported.