Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Li, Yawen

Abstract

Postpartum depression is a prevalent mood disorder that impacts 10-20% of women annually in the United States following childbirth. While all pregnant women are at risk of PPD, existing literature suggests that Latina mothers report PPD and seek treatment at lower rates than White mothers. Prior studies have identified risk factors and barriers that impact reporting and treatment among Latinas. The aim of this study is to investigate the interplay of race, depression, marital status, education, poverty level, and social support among White and Latina mothers. Using combined data from the 2017 and 2018 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS), we analyzed a sample of 213 White and Latina women who had given birth within the past 12 months. Logistic regression analyses revealed that Latina mothers were significantly less likely to report depression compared to White mothers (B = -2.413, p < 0.001, Exp(B) = 0.090). The only other significant predictor of depression was perceived social support in the community, which was associated with a 53.4% decrease in the odds of depression (B = -0.764, p = 0.017, Exp(B) = 0.466). These findings highlight the protective role of social support in mitigating PPD risk, while leaving room to consider the possible influence of culture on social support. This research strengthens the existing body of literature that recognizes social support as a protective factor for PPD. Additionally, this study contributes to targeted intervention for PPD prevention and support across diverse populations of mothers who’s wellbeing will directly impact their child’s development.

Download

  Contact Author

Share

COinS