| Abstract [eng] |
Women who have experienced violence during childhood may perceive the postpartum period as particularly stressful. They also have difficulty accepting social support, which increases the risk of health problems (e.g., depression, anxiety, self-harm, etc.). This study examined the relationship between childhood violence, perceived social support and its sources (family, partner, friends), and perceived stress levels in the first year after childbirth. Participants in this study were mothers (N=154) raising children up to one-year-old, who completed questionnaires on perceived stress (Cohen et al.., 1983), perceived social support (Zimet, 1998), and adverse childhood experiences (Felitti et al., 1998). Statistical correlational, regression, and mediation analyses were used to predict the level of perceived stress, its relationship with childhood violence, and the role of perceived social support. According to the results of this study, childhood violence was associated with higher levels of perceived stress and lower levels of perceived social support in the first year after childbirth. The study also found that the positive effect of perceived social support required cumulative support from various sources (partners, friends, and family). The results of this study highlight the harm caused by childhood violence and the importance of increased social support for mothers, particularly those who have experienced childhood violence, in the first year after childbirth. |
