Date of Award

Spring 2008

Project Type

Thesis

Program or Major

Nursing

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Lynette Hamlin

Abstract

The potential risk factors and the symptoms of postpartum depression have been identified in the healthcare literature. Literature shows that there is a relationship between perceived self-efficacy and risk for postpartum depression. The identification of health locus of control and self-efficacy in new mothers will allow nurses to create individualized patient care interventions for women at risk of developing postpartum depression, thus potentially improving outcomes. This study sought to determine if a correlation exists between risk for depression, as identified by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and health locus of control, as identified by the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scales. A population of 69 women was assessed at 6 weeks postpartum using both screening tools. A moderate relationship was found to support the hypothesis that women with a decreased risk for postpartum depression will identify an internal locus of control.

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