Perceived social support, newborn temperament and socioeconomic status in postpartum depression: report from southwest Serbia

Abstract

The aim of this study is to asses the relationship between postpartum depression and perceived social support, newborn temperament, and selected sociodemographic variables.The sample consisted of 145 mothers, with an average age of 27, mostly married. The following instruments were used in the research: Questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, Neonatal temperament scale, Edinburgh scale of postpartum depression - EPDS and Scale of perceived social support.The results showed that reduced social support from partners, friends, and family, difficult newborn temperament, and low socioeconomic status correlated with postpartum depression.The practical implications of the research are reflected in the understanding of social support as a significant predictor of depression in the postpartum period and the implementation of the social component in the system of support and assistance to pregnant women and mothers.Recognizing the factors that cause mood disorders after childbirth is an important part of the diagnosis and prevention of postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a non-psychotic postpartum mood disorder that can last up to 12 months postpartum. The etiological disorder is still not differentiated because it is differentiated through a bio-psycho-social basis.