Structural Equation Modeling on Antenatal Depression

임부의 산전 우울 구조모형

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to test and validate a model to predict antenatal depression. Methods: Data were collected from a self-administered questionnaire of 251 pregnant women in D metropolitan city. Exogenous variables were self-esteem, social support, and high risk pregnancy. Endogenous variables consisted of pregnancy stress, pregnancy coping, and antenatal depression. Data were analyzed by SPSS 23.0 and AMOS 21.0. Results: Model fit indices for the hypotheoretical model fitted to the recommended levels. Out of 12 paths, 6 were statistically significant. Variables accounted for 72.6% of antenatal depression. Predictors of antenatal depression were pregnancy stress (t = 7.64), self-esteem (t = -2.03), and social support (t = -2.06). Conclusions: Results indicate that an intervention program which increases self-esteem would be useful for pregnant women to decrease antenatal depression level. Antenatal program are needed to be applied to spouse and family members as well. To decrease pregnancy stress in pregnant women contributes to antenatal depression.