Maternal expectations of postpartum social support: validation of the Postpartum Social Support Questionnaire during pregnancy

Arch Womens Ment Health. 2012 Aug;15(4):307-11. doi: 10.1007/s00737-012-0287-x. Epub 2012 May 16.

Abstract

Thirteen percent of women experience postpartum depression. Prenatal screening for anticipated postpartum social support, a postpartum depression risk factor, may allow for early intervention. We sought to validate use of a modified version of the Postpartum Social Support Questionnaire (PSSQ) in pregnant women at increased risk for postpartum depression. Factor analysis using orthogonal varimax rotation was used. The modified PSSQ, administered during pregnancy, yields similar loading patterns as observed in postpartum administration of the original PSSQ.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Depression, Postpartum / prevention & control*
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical
  • Female
  • Georgia
  • Humans
  • Postpartum Period / psychology*
  • Prenatal Care
  • Prospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Social Support*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*