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The effect of postnatal symptoms of post-traumatic stress and depression on the couple's relationship and parent-baby bond
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 18:09 authored by Ylva Parfitt, Susan AyersObjectives: Research has shown that between 1 and 3% of women may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following childbirth. However, the potential effect of childbirth on fathers, and the implications of post-natal symptoms of PTSD for family relationships, have received little attention. The current study therefore examined the potential effects of PTSD symptoms on the couple's relationship and parent-baby bond. Design: Internet-based questionnaire study. Methods: One hundred and fifty-two parents (126 women and 26 men) completed questionnaire measures of PTSD, depression, quality of the couple's relationship, and the parent-baby bond. Results: Symptoms of PTSD and depression were significantly correlated with the couples' relationship and parent-baby bond. Structural equation modelling found the model that best fitted the data was one where PTSD symptoms had a direct effect on the parent-baby bond, but the effect of PTSD on the couples' relationship was mediated by depression. Conclusions: The results indicate the importance of examining the psychological reactions of men and women after birth; and suggest that symptoms of PTSD have an effect on the parent-baby bond. However, methodological considerations mean further research is needed to replicate and extend this study before firm conclusions can be drawn.
History
Publication status
- Published
Journal
Reproductive and Infant PsychologyISSN
1469-672XExternal DOI
Issue
2Volume
27Page range
127-142Pages
15.0Department affiliated with
- Psychology Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2012-02-06Usage metrics
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