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Health visitor's management of postnatal depression within community practice. / Jacqlaine B Davies

Swansea University Author: Jacqlaine B Davies

Abstract

"A concern over the psychosocial implications of postnatal depression and a desire to contribute to the resolution of the problem were the motivation for this study. The study is informed by the philosophy of counselling psychology which is an applied area of psychology in which the objective i...

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Published: 2003
Institution: Swansea University
Degree level: Master of Philosophy
Degree name: M.Phil
URI: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa42322
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Abstract: "A concern over the psychosocial implications of postnatal depression and a desire to contribute to the resolution of the problem were the motivation for this study. The study is informed by the philosophy of counselling psychology which is an applied area of psychology in which the objective is to help people to live more effective and fulfilled lives. It is distinguished from psychiatry, clinical psychology and educational psychology by its emphasis on well-being and self actualisation, rather than sickness, severe disturbance and maladjustment. This qualitative study is designed to elicit information about health visitor's perceptions of postnatal depression and whether their views influence the levels of care offered to mothers. It is hoped that a more comprehensive view can be obtained of how health visitors detect and perceive postnatal depression and provide support for mothers. Previous published studies of postnatal depression have focused on the mother's perceptions of the service, which they receive, (Cox et al, 1987; Elliott, 1989; Holden, 1989 and Gerrard, 1993). This study is different in that it seeks to ascertain health visitor's views about the means of identifying and managing postnatal depression. Using a qualitative methodology the study sought the views of a sample of thirteen health visitors who had practised for two years or more. This length of experience ensured that they possessed sufficient experience of helping mothers with postnatal depression. The study adopted a descriptive survey methodology to gather data using semi-structured, tape-recorded interviews with a group of health visitors. Tape recordings were transcribed and phenomenological data reduction and content analysis used to identify key themes, which emerged health visitor's reports. Thus conclusions could be drawn about issues related to the detection and management of postnatal depression. The condition of postnatal depression will be outlined within the context of "health". Findings of the study show which aspects of postnatal depression cause health visitors most concern, health visitor's attitudes towards dealing with postnatal depression, and the necessary development and training required to improve health visitor's working practices in respect of postnatal mothers."
Keywords: Counseling Psychology.
College: Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences

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