Acta Iadertina, Vol. 21 No. 1, 2024.
Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.15291/ai.4510
Mental Health and Life Satisfaction in Mothers of Prematurely Born Children
Marina VIDAKOVIĆ
; Department of Psychology, University of Zadar, Zadar, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Premature birth, defined as delivery before the 37th week of gestation,
is an increasing health problem in modern society. Prematurely
born children are at a higher risk for long-term neurodevelopmental
and medical issues due to their immaturity at birth, which presents
various challenges for their parents. Research shows that mothers of
prematurely born children experience higher levels of stress, anxiety,
and depression compared to mothers of full-term children. The main
aim of this study was to determine the contribution of certain sociodemographic
characteristics of the mother (mother’s age and education
level, subjective assessment of material and health status) and
social support (from family and friends) in explaining specific aspects
of mental health (depression, anxiety, and stress) and life satisfaction
among mothers of prematurely born children. The study involved 383
mothers of prematurely born children, with an average age of 33 years.
The results showed that the mother’s age is not a significant correlate of
mental health and life satisfaction. Additionally, the findings indicate
that mothers with higher education levels and those who assess their
health status as better have fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety, and
stress. Regarding support, the results show that support from family
and friends is a significant and negative predictor of mental health. In
terms of life satisfaction, mothers who assess their material and health
status as better are more satisfied with their lives. Furthermore, greater
perceived support from family and friends is a significant and positive
predictor of life satisfaction. Sociodemographic factors and social support
from family and friends together explain about 41% of the variance
in life satisfaction, 29% of the variance in depression, 21% of the
variance in anxiety, and 18% of the variance in stress among mothers
of prematurely born children.
Keywords
mental health; sociodemographic characteristic; , family and friend support
Hrčak ID:
319570
URI
Publication date:
22.7.2024.
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