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Del Hoyo-Bilbao J, Orue I. Relationship between maternal anxiety and infants' temperament: The mediating role of mindful parenting. Infant Behav Dev 2024; 75:101931. [PMID: 38458100 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2024.101931] [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] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Research has indicated that maternal anxiety does have an effect on infant temperament. Therefore, it is important to study the variables that could play a role in this relationship. In this study, we propose that mindful parenting could act as a mediator in this relationship. Thus, the main objective was to evaluate the relationship between maternal anxiety and child temperament (i.e., negative affectivity, surgency, and effortful control) through the mindful parenting of mothers. Mothers (N = 225) self-reported their anxiety, mindful parenting use, and the temperament of their old infants (aged 4-18 months). First, the reliability and validity results showed that the infant version of the Interpersonal Mindful Parenting questionnaire was a good tool for the assessment of mindful parenting among parents with infants. The five-factor structure of the questionnaire was confirmed; it involved self-regulation in the parenting relationship, listening with full attention, emotional awareness of the child, compassion for the child, and non-judgmental acceptance of parenting behavior. Correlational analyses showed that maternal anxiety was related to negative affectivity and effortful control in infants. Furthermore, mediational analyses indicated that the relation between maternal anxiety and infant negative affectivity was mediated by self-regulation in parenting and the emotional awareness of the child. In addition, the relation between maternal anxiety and infant effortful control was mediated by compassion for the child and listening with full attention. These results contribute to knowledge about the relation between maternal anxiety and child temperament, which may increase the risk of psychological symptoms. The results of this study suggest that promoting mindful parenting skills may be beneficial for affectivity and effortful control in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Del Hoyo-Bilbao
- Deusto Stress Research, Department of Psychology, Health Sciences Faculty, University of Deusto, Spain.
| | - Izaskun Orue
- Deusto Stress Research, Department of Psychology, Health Sciences Faculty, University of Deusto, Spain
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Passaquindici I, Nardozza O, Sperati A, Lionetti F, D'Urso G, Fasolo M, Spinelli M. Maternal dispositional mindfulness and mother-child relationship: The mediating role of emotional control during parenting. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13264. [PMID: 38606480 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The literature supports the role of parental dispositional mindfulness on parent-child relationship quality. However, little is known about the connection between these two aspects. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate whether emotion regulation during parenting, that is, the ability to control negative emotions, mediated the association between parental dispositional mindfulness and parent-child relationship quality. The study also explored the moderation role of child age on the association between parental dispositional mindfulness and parent's ability to control negative emotions during parenting. METHODS Participants were 635 mothers of children aged between 12 months and 5 years. Mothers completed self-report questionnaires to measure maternal dispositional mindfulness, mother-child relationship quality and maternal control of negative emotions during parenting. RESULTS Results showed that maternal ability to control negative emotions during parenting partially mediated the association between maternal dispositional mindfulness and mother-child relationship quality. Moreover, the moderation role of child age indicated that the association between maternal dispositional mindfulness and maternal ability to control negative emotions during parenting was stronger for older children's mothers. CONCLUSION Dispositional mindfulness has a protective role for the quality of parenting and the mother-child relationship. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Passaquindici
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Odette Nardozza
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sperati
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesca Lionetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giulio D'Urso
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Mirco Fasolo
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Maria Spinelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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Batac ALR, Merrill KA, Golding MA, Bhamra M, Harbottle Z, Kopsch I, Wilking E, Jonsson M, Ekström S, Abrams EM, Halbrich MA, Simons E, Roos LE, Keddy-Grant JA, Gerstner TV, St-Vincent JA, Protudjer JLP. Infantile atopic dermatitis and maternal-infant bonding: a mixed methods study. ALLERGY, ASTHMA, AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 19:100. [PMID: 38031081 PMCID: PMC10687835 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-023-00857-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood atopic dermatitis can have a negative effect on caregivers' quality of life and stress levels due to the burdensome nature of its treatment. Given that the condition often emerges in infancy, atopic dermatitis-related stress also carries the potential to negatively affect the developing mother-infant bond. While it is plausible that atopic dermatitis has a negative impact on maternal-infant bonding, these relationships have not been studied directly. In light of this gap, the current study investigated the association between infantile atopic dermatitis and the maternal-infant bond using a mixed-method design. METHODS Mothers of infants (< 19 months) with atopic dermatitis were recruited from social media and medical clinics between October 2021 and May 2022. Mothers with infants unaffected by inflammatory skin conditions were also recruited to serve as a control group. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires related to their demographics, child's health, and mother-infant bond. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to assess bonding quality among cases and controls. A subset of cases were also asked to participate in semi-structured interviews focused on infantile atopic dermatitis and the maternal-infant bond. RESULTS The final sample consisted of 32 cases and 65 controls. Scores on the impaired bonding and risk of abuse subscales did not significantly differ between cases and controls. However, mothers of infants with atopic dermatitis did report lower levels of caregiving anxiety (b = - 1.47, p < 0.01) and pathological anger/rejection (b = - 1.74, p = 0.02) relative to controls. Qualitative findings suggest that the topical therapies required to manage atopic dermatitis may strengthen the bond between some mothers and infants. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that atopic dermatitis does not have a negative impact on maternal-infant bonding and may actually improve bonds in some cases. In light of this finding, clinicians may leverage the potentially positive impact of atopic dermatitis-related caregiving on the maternal-infant bond to encourage caregivers to remain adherent to their child's topical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayel Luis R Batac
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Kaitlyn A Merrill
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Michael A Golding
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
| | - Manvir Bhamra
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Zoe Harbottle
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | | | - Marina Jonsson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sandra Ekström
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elissa M Abrams
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michelle A Halbrich
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Elinor Simons
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children's Allergy and Asthma Education Centre, Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Leslie E Roos
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jill A Keddy-Grant
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Section of Dermatology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Thomas V Gerstner
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jo-Anne St-Vincent
- Children's Allergy and Asthma Education Centre, Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jennifer L P Protudjer
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Saleh L, Canclini S, Mathison C, Combs S, Dickerson B. "This is not what I imagined motherhood would look like": pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting during COVID-19 - a qualitative analysis of the first year since birth. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:578. [PMID: 37568087 PMCID: PMC10422746 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05872-3] [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] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childbearing is one of the most emotional and transformative events in a woman's life. This study aims to explore the impact COVID-19 had on childbirth, postpartum, and the first year since giving birth. METHODS This was a qualitative study using data previously collected for a larger study of women who had given birth during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. The findings presented here are from an analysis of a subset of open-ended questions. Sixty-six participants completed questions about how COVID-19 affected childbearing and postpartum experiences. Data was analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Thematic analysis of the data identified five major themes and several subthemes, including: (1) amplification of new mother typical emotions (positive emotions and negative emotions), (2) financial impact on mothers and their families, (3) persistent impact of COVID-19, (4) new mom paradigm crash (first time mothers and experienced mothers faced different issues such as lack of education and support, adding a layer to the day-to-day, and negotiating time with others) and (5) validating the importance of maternal health. On the whole, participants were overwhelmed, isolated, and did not have enough physical and emotional support. There was a lack of supportive maternal healthcare both in the short-term and long-term, with an emphasis on poor postpartum support. CONCLUSIONS This study supports previous findings that women who gave birth and entered motherhood during the COVID-19 pandemic were impacted in many ways. These findings contribute to the understanding of women's experiences not just in the immediate postpartum period, but in their daily lives one year after childbirth. The results highlight that our nation's traditional maternal healthcare model may be insufficient, especially when facing a national crisis. Strain placed on the healthcare system by COVID-19 impacted both the physical and mental health of mothers who were often left with inadequate care, education, and support. Our findings point to the need for more supportive maternal health both during childbirth and postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shanna Combs
- Anne Marion Burnett School of Medicine at Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, USA
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5
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Diniz BP, Grisi SJFE, de Souza DM, Ferrer APS. Mother-infant bonding and postpartum depression during the COVID-19 pandemic - a risk for nurturing care and child development. REVISTA PAULISTA DE PEDIATRIA : ORGAO OFICIAL DA SOCIEDADE DE PEDIATRIA DE SAO PAULO 2023; 42:e2022151. [PMID: 37436245 PMCID: PMC10332442 DOI: 10.1590/1984-0462/2024/42/2022151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic Increased the risk of impairing the mother-infant bonding. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the early bond established between mother and infant and postpartum depression (PPD) in pregnancies that occurred during the pandemic period, to identify the factors that may have influenced these outcomes and to verify if there was an association between bonding and probable PPD. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study of postpartum women from a public maternity hospital in the city of São Paulo conducted from February to June 2021, involving 127 mother-baby dyads. The initial data were collected in the immediate postpartum period and between 21-45 days after birth, using a semi-structured questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, gestational and birth conditions, and baby characteristics; the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ) were used to evaluate PPD and bonding, respectively. RESULTS The presence of probable PPD and unplanned pregnancies were associated with higher PBQ score and risk to impaired bonding (p = 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively). EPDS showed a high prevalence of PPD (29.1%) and was not associated with any Studied variable. Probably, this high prevalence of probable PPD was due to the context of insecurity secondary to the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS We observed an increase in the prevalence of probable PPD and unplanned pregnancies during the first 18 months of the pandemic, which were associated with worse scores in mother-infant bonding. The impaired bond can affect the future development of children born during this period.
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Chae SM, Kang HS, Kim M. Perinatal women's experiences of childbirth and parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative descriptive study. Health Care Women Int 2023:1-17. [PMID: 36943248 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2023.2190591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we described perinatal women's experiences of childbirth and parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic, guided by the qualitative descriptive methodology. We interviewed 14 women who gave birth during the pandemic. Data were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis. Our results showed that perinatal women experienced fear of COVID-19 infection, depression, and difficulties related to childbirth and parenting. They believed that online services and sharing information through social networking were helpful. They were looking forward to participating in outdoor activities to promote children's development and suggested enforcing untact (no contact) services for perinatal women in the post-COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Mi Chae
- College of Nursing, The Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University College of Nursing, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hee Sun Kang
- Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Minjin Kim
- University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Penna AL, de Aquino CM, Pinheiro MSN, do Nascimento RLF, Farias-Antúnez S, Araújo DABS, Mita C, Machado MMT, Castro MC. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices: a global scoping review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:388. [PMID: 36823592 PMCID: PMC9950022 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15003-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In March 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), generating stark economic and social repercussions that directly or indirectly affected families' wellbeing and health status. AIMS This review aims at mapping the existing evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices, worldwide, to identify evidence gaps and better inform future delivery of care and health policy measures. METHODS Following the protocol defined by PRISMA-ScR, this scoping review has searched for relevant studies published between January 2020 and June 2021, selecting evidence sources based on pre-established criteria. From a total of 2,308 articles, data were extracted from 537 publications from 35 countries on all three health domains. RESULTS The combined stressors brought forth by the pandemic have exerted a heavy burden on the mental health of mothers and the development of young children, partly mediated by its impact on parental practices. CONCLUSIONS Despite remaining gaps, we have identified sufficient evidence pointing to an urgent need for more concerted global research efforts and rapid policy responses to timely address severe and pervasive negative impacts to the mental health of mothers and children at a key developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luiza Penna
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA.
| | - Camila Machado de Aquino
- grid.8395.70000 0001 2160 0329Department of Community Health, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | | | - Simone Farias-Antúnez
- grid.411237.20000 0001 2188 7235Department of Health Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Araranguá, Brazil
| | | | - Carol Mita
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XCountway Library, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | | | - Marcia C. Castro
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
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Federica G, Renata T, Marzilli E. Parental Postnatal Depression in the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of Its Effects on the Parent-Child Relationship and the Child's Developmental Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2018. [PMID: 36767385 PMCID: PMC9915850 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The international literature has shown that maternal and paternal postnatal depression (PND) is one of the most common mental illnesses in the perinatal period, with significant consequences for parent-infant relationships and infant development. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the rates of prevalence of PND, exacerbating the mental health risk for new families. This systematic review aims to examine the effect of maternal and paternal PND on parent-infant relationships and children's development in the first 36 months after childbirth during the COVID-19 outbreak. Eligible studies were identified using the following databases: Medline, CINAHL, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Of the 1252 studies considered, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Results showed that maternal PND significantly affected the quality of the early mother-infant relationship and the infant's motor, self-regulation, and socio-emotional development. In addition, the detrimental impact of maternal PND on the quality of early mother-infant relationships seems to become stronger as COVID-19 concerns increase. No studies included fathers. These findings strengthened the importance of planning targeted prevention and treatment strategies to prevent PND and its short- and long-term consequences, especially in the case of stressful and traumatic events. They also suggested the urgent need for further exploration of fathers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genova Federica
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Tambelli Renata
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical & Health Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Marzilli
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical & Health Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Mazumdar K, Parekh S, Sen I. Mindful parenting-A thematic exploration of narratives from Indian mothers. Front Glob Womens Health 2023; 3:975683. [PMID: 36713980 PMCID: PMC9875297 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.975683] [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: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction With the global crisis of COVID-19 continuing, Indian mothers have not received adequate attention with respect to their challenges and mothering experiences. The current study explored mindful parenting practices in a cohort of Indian mothers of children aged 10 years and below that emerged in response to the challenges posed by COVID-19. Methods In-depth virtual interviews were conducted with 31 urban Indian mothers to explore their lived experiences of mothering during the global crisis and their engagements with mindful parenting practices. The data were thematically analyzed. Results and Discussion The study identified two overarching themes and nine subthemes. The first theme, pandemic-induced stress, included the sub-themes of increased workload, poor support system, lack of time for self, and emotional and physical distress. The second theme of mindful parenting included the sub-themes of awareness as a mother and around the child, acceptance toward self and the child, empathic understanding of self and the child, active engagement with the child, and emotional regulation. Increased workload on all fronts coupled with poor support and a lack of time for self-contributed to exacerbated emotional and physical stress in mothers. They addressed these concerns posed by their lived experiences by engaging in mindful parenting processes in their mothering practices. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and mindfulness-based parenting techniques could be explored as possible interventions for mothers to alleviate their distress while drawing attention to larger structural changes and policy-level interventions addressing social issues such as gender inequality and childcare concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketoki Mazumdar
- Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Liberal Education, FLAME University, Pune, India,Correspondence: Ketoki Mazumdar
| | - Sneha Parekh
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, India
| | - Isha Sen
- Independent Researcher, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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Xavier S, Branquinho M, Pires R, Moreira H, Coelho M, Araújo-Pedrosa A. Dysfunctional Attitudes Toward Motherhood and Depressive Symptoms in Portuguese Pregnant Women During COVID-19 Pandemic: the Mediating Roles of Self-Compassion and Mindful Self-Care. Mindfulness (N Y) 2023; 14:418-428. [PMID: 36597485 PMCID: PMC9798940 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-022-02049-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Objectives There is evidence that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a negative impact on the mental health of pregnant women, such as an increase in the prevalence of depression. Given the negative consequences that depressive symptoms can pose for pregnant women, it is crucial to understand how cognitive processes influence women's depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic among this specific vulnerable population. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between pregnant women's dysfunctional attitudes toward motherhood and their depressive symptoms, considering the mediating roles of self-compassion and mindful self-care. Method A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Portugal between October 2020 and April 2021. A sample of 244 pregnant women answered a set of questionnaires to assess dysfunctional attitudes toward motherhood, depressive symptoms, self-compassion, and mindful self-care. Results More dysfunctional attitudes toward motherhood were associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms, and this relation was mediated through self-compassion and mindful self-care. Conclusions These results highlight that self-compassion and mindful self-care are important psychological mechanisms and the importance of considering them in psychological interventions to prevent and/or treat depressive symptoms in pregnant women with dysfunctional attitudes toward motherhood during stressful events such as a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Xavier
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariana Branquinho
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raquel Pires
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Helena Moreira
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Coelho
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Araújo-Pedrosa
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- grid.28911.330000000106861985Clinical Psychology Service & Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics, Reproduction and Neonatology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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11
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Giving Birth in Unpredictable Conditions: Association between Parents' COVID-19 Related Concerns, Family Functioning, Dyadic Coping, Perceived Social Support and Depressive Symptoms. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10122550. [PMID: 36554073 PMCID: PMC9778005 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122550] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The way postpartum parents' COVID-19-related concerns are associated with the family environment, support resources and depressive symptoms areunder-investigated. METHODS Two hundred and forty-three new parents (132 mothers, 111 fathers) completed self-report questionnaires within an 8-week period after birth. Parental concerns for COVID-19-related life changes were assessed with the COVID-19 Questionnaire, perceived social support with the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, perceived family functioning with the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales IV Package, dyadic coping behaviors with the Dyadic Coping Inventory and maternal/paternal postnatal depression with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. RESULTS (a) Higher levels of COVID-19-related concerns about daily life were associated with lower levels of family communication, satisfaction and increased depressive symptomatology in both parents, and with lower levels of family functioning in mothers; (b) Maternal health care COVID-19-related concerns were linked with lower levels of family communication, lower perceived social support and with an increase in maternal depressive symptoms; and (c) COVID-19-related concerns about neonate hospitalization were associated with increased maternal depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION Τhese findings suggest that COVID-19-related concerns had a common negative effect on both postpartum mothers' and fathers' mental health and on certain aspects of family functioning.
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Gao S, Su S, Zhang E, Liu R, Zhang Y, Wang C, Liu J, Xie S, Yin C, Yue W. Psychological health status in postpartum women during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2022; 319:99-111. [PMID: 36087790 PMCID: PMC9450470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.08.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled the prevalence of psychological symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined the effects of the pandemic on psychological health in postpartum women. METHODS A systematic literature search and identification were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases until June 16th, 2021. The fixed or random effect models to estimate the pooled prevalence of postpartum psychological symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic and the odds ratio (OR) of COVID-19 for psychological symptoms. RESULTS A total of 29 articles including 20,225 postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic and 8312 before the COVID-19 pandemic were identified. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of postpartum depressive, anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were 26.7 % (95 % CI: 22.0-31.9 %), 33.8 % (95 % CI: 21.1-49.4 %), 55.0 % (95%CI: 27.9-79.5 %), and 33.7 % (95%CI: 19.6-51.5 %), respectively. The ORs of COVID-19 pandemic for postpartum depressive and anxiety symptoms were 1.54 (95 % CI: 1.00-2.36) and 2.56 (95%CI: 1.62-4.04). Subgroup analyses revealed that women with >6 weeks after delivery, younger than 35 years old, low income, less education and without breastfeeding experienced a higher risk of depressive or anxiety symptoms after delivery. LIMITATIONS Only a few of prospective studies were included, and significant but inevitable heterogeneities were found in some analyses. CONCLUSION A significantly higher proportion of postpartum women were suffered from psychological symptoms during COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in those with >6 weeks after delivery, younger than 35 years old, low income, less education and formula feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chenghong Yin
- Department of Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, China.
| | - Wentao Yue
- Department of Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, China.
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13
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Levinson A, Mahaffey B, Lobel M, Preis H. Development and psychometric properties of the Pandemic-Related Postpartum Stress Scale (PREPS-PP). J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 43:426-432. [PMID: 34967691 PMCID: PMC9243190 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2021.2013798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Postpartum experiences have been adversely affected by the burdens of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are no well-tested measures of pandemic-specific postpartum stress. We developed a modified, postpartum version of the Pandemic-Related Pregnancy Stress Scale (PREPS) and examined the psychometric properties of this novel measure. METHODS Online questionnaires were administered at 3-4 month intervals throughout pregnancy and postpartum to women pregnant at the start of the pandemic. This study reports psychometric properties of the Pandemic-Related Postpartum Stress Scale (PREPS-PP) among women who were administered this instrument at either of two postpartum timepoints. RESULTS At both timepoints (n = 1301 and n = 1009), CFAs revealed good model fit of the same three-factor structure identified for the prenatal PREPS (Preparedness Stress, Infection Stress, and Positive Appraisal). All PREPS-PP subscales demonstrated good reliability (α's .78-87). Higher levels of Preparedness Stress and Infection Stress were associated with greater health and financial burdens and psychological distress. CONCLUSIONS The PREPS-PP is a reliable and valid measure of postpartum stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a valuable tool for future research into how pandemic-related postpartum stress may affect families in the short- and long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Levinson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794 USA
| | - Brittain Mahaffey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794 USA
| | - Marci Lobel
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794 USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794 USA
| | - Heidi Preis
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794 USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794 USA
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14
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Ergün S, Kaynak S, Aydın B. Fear of COVID-19 and related factors affecting mothers' breastfeeding self-efficacy during the pandemic. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2022; 56:e20220130. [PMID: 36279566 PMCID: PMC10101722 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2022-0130en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the breastfeeding self-efficacy levels of mothers during the pandemic period, to compare them according to various characteristics, and to examine the relationship between the fear of COVID-19 and breastfeeding self-efficacy. METHOD The data of this descriptive and cross-sectional were collected through a web-based survey of 392 mothers between June and August 2021. The data collection tools were the Introductory Data Form, the Breast-feeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form, and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. RESULTS The mean score for breastfeeding self-efficacy was found to be 56.18 ± 8.24, while the mean score for the Fear of COVID-19 scale was 21.77 ± 6.14. Having a high fear of COVID-19, breastfeeding more frequently in this period, and suspecting that they had COVID-19 affected the breastfeeding self-efficacy scores positively, whereas graduating from primary school had a negative effect on self-efficacy. CONCLUSION The breastfeeding self-efficacy of mothers who were fearful of COVID-19, who breastfed more frequently during the pandemic, and who had a higher education level were positively affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibel Ergün
- Balıkesir University, Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of
Health Sciences, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | - Serap Kaynak
- Balıkesir University, Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of
Health Sciences, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | - Beray Aydın
- Institute of Health Sciences, Balıkesir, Turkey
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15
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Kokkinaki T, Hatzidaki E. COVID-19 Pandemic-Related Restrictions: Factors That May Affect Perinatal Maternal Mental Health and Implications for Infant Development. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:846627. [PMID: 35633965 PMCID: PMC9133722 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.846627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This review aims to discuss the factors that may affect maternal mental health and infant development in COVID-19 pandemic condition. Toward this direction, the two objectives of this review are the following: (a) to discuss possible factors that may have affected negatively perinatal mental health through the pandemic-related restrictions; and (b) to present the implications of adversely affected maternal emotional wellbeing on infant development. We conclude that the pandemic may has affected maternal mental health with possible detrimental effects for the infants of the COVID-19 generation. We highlight the need for evidence-based interventions to be integrated within the health system for prenatal and postpartum care in an effort to promote maternal mental health and infant development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theano Kokkinaki
- Child Development and Education Unit, Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, Greece
| | - Eleftheria Hatzidaki
- Department of Neonatology, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), School of Medicine, University of Crete, Rethymno, Greece
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16
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COVID-19 related worry moderates the association between postpartum depression and mother-infant bonding. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 149:83-86. [PMID: 35259664 PMCID: PMC8889491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to ask whether a substantial external stressor, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, affects the association between postpartum depression (PPD) and mother-infant bonding. Specifically, we aimed to determine whether worry regarding such an external threat differentially affected PPD and bonding by analyzing a longitudinal sample of postpartum women assessed before and during the pandemic. One-hundred forty women responded to online questionnaires at (T1) Pre-COVID-19: Six months postpartum (February 2018 to December 2019), and (T2) During COVID-19: Twenty-one months postpartum (April 2020 to January 2021). The strength of correlation between mother-infant bonding and PPD significantly declined from before (T1: R = 0.64, p < 0.00) to during the pandemic (T2: R = 0.44, p < 0.001; Difference = 0.20, p = 0.05). Furthermore, only PPD correlated with the worry due to the pandemic; thus the PPD-bonding association was weaker among women who were less concerned about the pandemic (F(3, 136) = 15.4, R2 = 0.25). The study suggests that emotions and cognitions related to motherhood, such as mother-infant bonding, may be more resilient to external pressures such as a pandemic than affective states such as PPD. (174 words).
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17
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COVID-19-related anxieties in first-time mothers during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and after 6 months: A descriptive study. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 64:126-132. [PMID: 35184936 PMCID: PMC8851201 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The changes accompanying the transition to motherhood, joined by the stress aroused by the COVID-19 pandemic, may lead to high levels of parental anxieties. This study, conducted in two phases-in the midst of the first wave of the pandemic and after six months-explores differences in the level of COVID-19-related anxieties of Israeli mothers in their first year of parenthood. DESIGN AND METHODS A cross-sectional study carried out with 198 first-time mothers aged 22-48 who completed self-report questionnaires on April 2020 and again on October 2020. The questionnaire was distributed through social networks and included a demographic scale and the COVID-19-related anxieties questionnaire. FINDINGS In the first phase, mothers reported higher anxieties concerning economic damage (M = 3.42; 3.11), being in public places (M = 4.34; M = 3.51), using public transportation (M = 4.80; M = 4.31), and going for infant checkups (M = 4.13; M = 3.06). In the second phase, mothers reported higher anxiety about being infected (M = 3.19; M = 3.48). DISCUSSION The results suggest the need to be attentive to the double stress of new mothers in a dynamic time of crisis, especially at the beginning of the crisis when anxiety levels may be highest. APPLICATION TO PRACTICE The findings may aid in developing interventions for new mothers in times of crisis. The finding that the COVID-19-related anxieties of new mothers may decrease over time points to the urgency of making interventions by health and medical professionals available to women in the first months after the birth of their first child.
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18
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Erten Ö, Biyik İ, Soysal C, Ince O, Keskin N, Tascı Y. Effect of the Covid 19 pandemic on depression and mother-infant bonding in uninfected postpartum women in a rural region. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:227. [PMID: 35305584 PMCID: PMC8934050 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04580-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Postpartum depression and maternal-infant attachment scores were examined in uninfected women during the COVID 19 pandemic in Kutahya, a rural province in Turkey's North Aegean region. Methods This cohort study was conducted in the Kutahya Health Sciences University Hospital obstetrics unit between April 2021 and August 2021. 178 low-risk term pregnant women who gave birth were given the surveys Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale and Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale (MIBQ) 6 weeks after birth. The Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale was used to determine postpartum depression and the Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale was used to determine maternal attachment. Results In this study, the postpartum depression rate was calculated as 17.4%. When depressed and non-depressed patients were compared, education level, maternal age, BMI, MIBQ score, history of previous pregnancies, route of delivery, previous operation history, economic status, employment status and pregnancy follow-up information were found to be similar (p > 0.05). The ratings on the Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale were found to be similar in depressed and non-depressed patients (p > 0.05). The odds of maternal depression for patients who received guests at home was 3.068 (95%CI [1.149–8.191]) times the odds of patients who did not receive guests at home. Conclusions Although a relationship has been found between accepting guests in the postpartum period and postpartum depression, it is necessary to investigate in further studies whether there is a causal relationship.
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19
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Fernandes J, Tavares I, Bem-Haja P, Barros T, Carrito ML. A Longitudinal Study on Maternal Depressive Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Strict Lockdown Measures and Social Support. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1604608. [PMID: 35356264 PMCID: PMC8959081 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1604608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study examined the trajectory of perinatal depressive symptoms in Portuguese women during the COVID-19 pandemic and the role of individual, relational, and contextual risk and protective factors.Methods: This 3-wave longitudinal study followed 290 pregnant women from the third trimester of pregnancy until 6-months postpartum. Women self-reported on depressive symptoms, psychological (anxiety, perceived stress, mindfulness), relational (perceived social support, dyadic adjustment, sexual wellbeing), and contextual (lockdown status) factors.Results: Women who were under strict lockdown presented significantly higher scores of depressive symptoms at baseline (by 1.38 EPDS points) than women who were not under strict lockdown measures. Mixed Growth Models showed that trajectories of depressive symptoms were explained by differences in women’s baseline depression. Differences in women’s depressive symptoms at baseline were mainly explained by higher anxiety and lower social support (22% and 24% for women under lockdown; 39% and 6% for women not on lockdown, respectively).Conclusion: Preventative interventions targeted at pregnant women should aim to reduce anxiety and enhance women’s social support to prevent depression in pregnancy and postpartum during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Fernandes
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Tavares
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Inês Tavares,
| | - Pedro Bem-Haja
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Tânia Barros
- Centro Materno-Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana L. Carrito
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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20
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Fernandes DV, Canavarro MC, Moreira H. Self-compassion and mindful parenting among postpartum mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic: The role of depressive and anxious symptoms. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-13. [PMID: 35283611 PMCID: PMC8905028 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-02959-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Self-compassion is an important psychological skill that may facilitate the adoption of a mindful way of parenting, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the association between these constructs may be explained by several variables, such as maternal psychopathological symptoms, with a well-established interference in parenting. This study aimed to compare mothers who experienced and mothers who did not experience a negative emotional impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on self-compassion, mindful parenting, postpartum depressive symptoms (PPDS) and postpartum anxious symptoms (PPAS). We also explored whether mothers' self-compassion was associated with mindful parenting and whether this relationship may be mediated by PPDS and PPAS. A sample of 977 Portuguese mothers of infants aged between zero and six months completed an online survey between December 2020 and January 2021, a period of major pandemic-related restrictions. The survey included several self-report questionnaires that assessed sociodemographic, clinical, and COVID-19 information, self-compassion, mindful parenting, PPDS and PPAS. Mothers who reported having felt that the pandemic had a negative emotional impact during their postpartum period (79.5%) presented lower levels of self-compassion and mindful parenting, and higher levels of PPDS and PPAS. Regarding the mediation model, higher levels of self-compassion were related to higher levels of mindful parenting, and this association was mediated by lower levels of PPAS. These results highlight the relevance of mothers' self-compassion for helping them feel less anxious and to adopt a mindful way of parenting in the postpartum period, particularly during the pandemic. Compassion-based interventions may be particularly important in reducing PPAS and promoting mindful parenting and should be available to postpartum mothers, especially during, but also beyond the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ventura Fernandes
- Centre for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioural Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Rua Do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Cristina Canavarro
- Centre for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioural Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Rua Do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Helena Moreira
- Centre for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioural Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Rua Do Colégio Novo, 3030-115 Coimbra, Portugal
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21
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Lin HC, Zehnah PL, Koire A, Mittal L, Erdei C, Liu CH. Maternal Self-Efficacy Buffers the Effects of COVID-19-Related Experiences on Postpartum Parenting Stress. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2022; 51:177-194. [PMID: 35114164 PMCID: PMC8709937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the associations of maternal self-efficacy (MSE) and perceived social support with parenting stress during the postpartum period during the COVID-19 pandemic and whether these two psychosocial factors account for variance in parenting stress in addition to the effects of COVID-19-related experiences and sociodemographic factors. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. SETTING Online survey, the Perinatal Experiences and COVID-19 Effects (PEACE) study, launched in May 2020. PARTICIPANTS Participants included 310 women who gave birth in the past 24 weeks. METHODS The survey included self-report quantitative measures of MSE, social support, COVID-19-related experiences, parenting stress, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and a range of sociodemographic factors. RESULTS Hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that MSE and social support were negatively associated with postpartum parenting stress in addition to the effects of COVID-19-related experiences, maternal symptoms of depression and anxiety, and a range of demographic factors. Furthermore, MSE interacted with COVID-19-related experiences such that higher levels of MSE mitigated the effects of COVID-19-related experiences on parenting stress. CONCLUSION Our findings underscore the importance of protective factors at the individual and interpersonal levels and provide insights for prevention and intervention programs aimed at mitigating postpartum parenting stress during a wide-scale disaster such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Usmani S, Greca E, Javed S, Sharath M, Sarfraz Z, Sarfraz A, Salari SW, Hussaini SS, Mohammadi A, Chellapuram N, Cabrera E, Ferrer G. Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Literature Review. J Prim Care Community Health 2021; 12:21501327211059348. [PMID: 34894838 PMCID: PMC8671662 DOI: 10.1177/21501327211059348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating worldwide effect on mental health. Recent studies correlate the spreading of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with symptoms of depression, most prominent in postpartum women. Our systematic literature review scope is to identify the risk factors and predictors for postpartum depression (PPD) and describe the steps that should be taken to help postpartum women. This study will help clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to elucidate the predictors of PPD during this pandemic and prevent these adverse outcomes in future crises. METHODS We conducted a systematic search by employing databases PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Embase to identify articles published before March 2021. About 463 publications were generated during our search process and from those, 36 were reviewed, summarized, and synthesized. Studies qualified the criteria if they (1) utilized qualitative or quantitative design, (2) explored the risk factors for PPD, and (3) were written in English. Quality evaluation of each study was achieved by using criteria set by Lincoln and Guba. RESULTS Prevalence of depression symptoms ranged from 7% to 80.8% in postpartum women during the SARS-COV 2 pandemic. The risk factors for PPD were classified into 6 major categories: socio-demographic, psychological, pre-existing pathology, metabolic factors, previous events of miscarriage, and media misinformation. CONCLUSION It is extremely vital to care for women's mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth during these unprecedented times. This review urges the need to design adequate interventions for this vulnerable population to prevent negative consequences of PPD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elona Greca
- Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sana Javed
- Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Zouina Sarfraz
- Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, FL, USA
- Zouina Sarfraz, Division of Clinical and Translational Research, Larkin Community Hospital, 7031 SW 62nd Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143, USA.
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