Previous research has established a link between social support and postpartum depression in adolescents. However, the measurement of social support has focused almost exclusively on interpersonal variables, and most studies have not been theory based. A wider definition and measurement of social support, guided by theory, may expand the theoretical understanding of the important link between these two variables and contribute to the science in this area. The purpose of this pilot study is to apply the bioecological model of development to the examination of the relationship between social support and symptoms of depression in postpartum adolescents. The design of this study is cross-sectional. A research assistant will obtain names of postpartum adolescents who meet the study criteria (goal is N=150) from Labor and Delivery at University Hospital. She will then obtain contact information from the ob/gyn clinical and call adolescents to determine if they are interested in study participation. Written consent of both adolescents and parent/guardian will be obtained at the home visit, or at the six-week postpartum visit. Instruments will be administered at this time. Adolescents will receive a $15 stipend for their participation. Results will provide data for the use of the bioecological model in future research with postpartum adolescents.
Session #1222 - Undergraduate Submissions
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)