Effects of Maternal Self-Efficacy and Social Support in the Development of Postpartum Depression among Primiparous Mothers in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

To explore the effect of maternal self-efficacy and social support in the development of postpartum depression (PPD) among Jordanian primiparous mothers. In a cross-sectional study using convenience sampling, 250 mothers aged 18 years or above, 6 to 8 weeks postpartum, and who could speak and read Arabic were interviewed in a participating health clinic. The interview occurred before or after a woman’s scheduled clinic appointment. It included sociodemographic data, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Perceived Maternal Parental Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Perinatal Infant Care Social Support Scale. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 24; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Reporting followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. Results revealed that 47.2% of participants had probable PPD (EPDS ≥ 13); 35.2% had low maternal self-efficacy, and 36.8% had low functional social support. Older and employed mothers were at increased risk of PPD symptoms. In contrast, higher monthly income, greater maternal self-efficacy, and higher functional social support were significantly associated with decreased risk of PPD symptoms. The prevalence of PPD reported in the current study warrants immediate action on early assessment, detection, and intervention. The findings also call for culturally tailored interventions and greater involvement of healthcare professionals and families to support maternal mental health. The study highlights the need for early screening and culturally tailored interventions to strengthen maternal self-efficacy and social support in preventing PPD. Nurses and midwives should collaborate with families to provide holistic, patient-centered care that addresses both emotional and practical needs of primiparous mothers.