The Interplay of Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms, Psychological Resilience, and Mother-Infant Attachment in Predicting Postpartum Depression After Earthquakes

Abstract

This study investigates the complex predictors of postpartum depression (PPD) among women affected by the 2023 Kahramanmara & scedil; earthquakes, focusing on the roles of post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), psychological resilience, and mother-infant attachment. A cross-sectional study of 270 postpartum women utilized measures of PTSS (Impact of Event Scale-Revised [IES-R]), PPD (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale [EPDS]), psychological resilience (Brief Psychological Resilience Scale [BPRS]), and mother-infant attachment (Mother-Infant Attachment Scale [MIAS]). Initial analyses showed that disaster-related exposure (e.g., following news and losing relatives) was significantly associated with PTSS severity. Hierarchical regression analyses demonstrated that PTSS was a significant positive predictor of PPD. Crucially, psychological resilience was found not only to be a direct negative predictor of PPD but also a significant moderator, weakening the positive relationship between PTSS and PPD. Furthermore, mother-infant attachment was a significant independent negative predictor of PPD, contributing to the variance beyond trauma and resilience. The findings confirm that in a post-disaster context, PTSS is a major risk factor for PPD, while psychological resilience serves a critical buffering function, and a strong mother-infant bond offers unique protection. These results underscore the necessity for integrated interventions that address trauma, foster resilience, and support the mother-infant relationship to mitigate PPD in vulnerable populations.