Family Network Ties During Pregnancy in Relation to Depressive Symptoms

• In Event: 30811 - Family and Well-Being

Abstract

This paper examines the relationships between different features of one's self-defined family network and the risk of depression during pregnancy. We use survey data from the Family Matters Study (n=434) to assess how the size, composition, and overall connectedness of one's family network relate to the number of depressive symptoms one reports in the middle of a pregnancy. Our findings demonstrate the value of looking beyond family structure or spouse/partner relationship dynamics to understand how family dynamics shape antenatal depression, informing family-centered approaches to promoting well-being during pregnancy.

Authors

• Julia Murrow, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

• Kaitlin Hope Joshua, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

• Jenna L Wertsching, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

• Rachel Moody, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Dana L. Haynie, The Ohio State University

• Lisa D. Pearce, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill