Family Support and Mental Health in Pregnant Women Experiencing Interpersonal Partner Violence: An Analysis of Ethnic Differences

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between family support and mental health in a community sample of pregnant women experiencing interpersonal partner violence (IPV). This study also examined how family support may differentially affect mental health in Black and White women experiencing IPV. A total of 110 participants (32 Black and 78 White) were obtained from the first time period of a longitudinal study examining the effects of domestic violence on women. The model was supported (chi2 = 142.55; df = 72, p > .001, RMSEA = .07). Black women had better mental health than White women. However, ethnicity was not a significant predictor of family support. Implications from this study highlight the need for further research on the role of family support in the lives of physically abused women as well as the need to incorporate cross cultural perspectives when examining this issue.

Family and community support systems for expectant mothers on birth preparedness in Northern Ghana

“…A study that focused on the key features of the transition to parenthood found that significant numbers of low risk parents experience psychological stress during this time, and that their concerns were much broader than the issues addressed by traditional ante-natal classes. 1 Respondents identified their mothers, husbands and sisters as people to depend on and listen to for good advice, help and loved. The findings of this study showed majority of respondents had support from husbands, mothers, mothers-in-law and fathers-in-law.…”

“…Couples who were strongly united and romantic in their relationship before the pregnancy found it harder to adapt to parenthood than those whose relationships were already faltering. 1,2 Unfortunately for some couples, their relationship does not always recover as around 14% of couples split up before the baby was born. Preparing parents for parenthood by addressing the emotional changes that take place during this period, and helping parents to address the problems that occur is therefore paramount.…”

“…Supporting mothers' emotional wellbeing during the perinatal period is now recognized to be as important as the traditional focus on the physical health of the mother and child. 1 Increasing evidence about early brain development and the way in which infants develop emotional and behavioural wellbeing within the context of their early relationships, has highlighted the particular importance of building a bond with the unborn baby, and sensitive early care giving. Family support can serve as the foundation of security and growth for an expectant mother and baby.…”

“…The community then identifies their role in preventing avoidable maternal death and promotes a zero tolerance to maternal deaths and violence against women. 1 Lastly, the community forms a committee known as Community Support Group (CSG) which establishes linkages with the health system and local government. The community becomes a 'watch dog' in order to prevent harmful practices.…”

“I am the worst pregnant woman ever”: A mixed-method study of the nature of psychological distress during pregnancy

“…Other determinants include individual characteristics, such as negative cognitive style and low self-esteem (Leigh & Milgrom, 2008), maternal age and past history of mood disorders (Milgrom et al, 2008). Additionally, factors such as financial difficulties, employment conditions (Rich-Edwards et al, 2006), low social support and strain in intimate relationships (Jones, Bogat, Davidson, von Eye, & Levendosky, 2005;Lee et al, 2007), major life events and partner violence (Leigh & Milgrom, 2008;Stone et al, 2015) have been suggested as potential risk factors. However, there is no conclusive evidence to support that any of these factors alone contribute to the development of antenatal distress.…”