Indigenous Tool Development and Validation of Post-Partum Depression and Identity Crisis

Abstract

Postpartum depression comprises persistent sadness, anxiety, and fatigue following childbirth, and identity crisis, marked by self-concept and role confusion, often co-occur during the transition to motherhood. Current research study focuses on the construction and validation of an indigenous tool on postpartum depression and identity crisis (PPDAIC) among mothers in Sialkot an area where the intersection of these constructs has been underexplored. Present study provides a reliable and instrument for the measurement of interconnected constructs. It illustrates a theoretical link between identity challenges and aggravated symptoms of depression during postpartum period. A mixed method approach was utilized to construct 25-item questionnaire developed and refined through item analysis. A sample of 200 mothers was considered for the implementation of the items constructed as final version of the scale. Sample was recruited through purposive sampling technique from diverse backgrounds (Periurban, Semi urban and Urban) of Sialkot. Exploratory factor analysis extracted 9 imminent factors represents both post-partum and identity crisis. Findings of the current research suggests that early identification targeted interventions are crucial to consider for maternal mental health.  In sum, study provides a culturally sensitive tool for the assessment of the issues advocates for future research on longitudinal trends and cross-cultural variations to enhance the support for mothers facing postpartum depression and identity crises across diverse contexts.