Family sense of coherence and depressive symptoms among childbearing couples

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Parental depression during pregnancy is a major health problem that can have detrimental effects on infants' psychosocial development. Little is known about the protective role of family sense of coherence against the development of depression among childbearing couples. The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between family sense of coherence, stress and depressive symptoms among Chinese childbearing couples. PATIENTS, METHODS: A cross-sectional design was used. A convenience sample of 224 first-time Chinese childbearing couples was recruited at the antenatal clinics. Participants completed the Family Sense of Competence Scale, Social Readjustment Rating Scale, and General Health Questionnaire. Path analysis was employed. RESULTS: Family sense of coherence had a direct impact on depressive symptoms among the childbearing couples. Family sense of coherence also mediated the effect of stress on depressive symptoms among the pregnant women. CONCLUSION: The study provides evidence that family sense of coherence plays a significant role in reducing couples' depressive symptoms during childbearing. Culturally competent healthcare should be developed to strengthen couples' family sense of coherence to combat the stress of new parenthood, thereby reducing the risk of depression during the critical time of parental transition.