PREDICTORS OF DEPRESSION IN MOTHERS OF PRETERM INFANTS

This descriptive study of mothers of premature infants (N=37) asked ho w much variance in maternal depression is accounted for by self-esteem , social support and relationship with significant other Mothers compl eted instruments shortly before their infants' NICU discharge and at t heir infant's four week follow-up visit. The mothers were depressed an d had low self-esteem at both time periods. Support was more important than the women expected and less support was received than expected. In a multiple regression equation, self-esteem and depression at Time I (before the baby's hospital discharge) were consistently related to depression at Time 2 (one month after infant's hospital discharge).