Postpartum Depression (PPD) and Its Impact on Child Development: An Exploration of the Attachment, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Outcomes of Children Exposed to PPD

13% of women experience postpartum depression (PPD) following the birth of their child. Symptoms include debilitating anxiety, insomnia despite feelings of exhaustion, anorexic behavior, feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness, guilt, emotional disconnection from their child, and difficulty with self-care. This doctoral project examines aspects of PPD and, through the Mutual Regulation Model, explores how the disorder impacts the development of the mother-child attachment bond as well as the emotional, social, and cognitive development of the infant. An extensive literature review was conducted to inform the author of current data available on the disorder and its impact on child development. Additional field interviews were conducted with experts in the area of reproductive mental health to corroborate and extend research findings. Finally, the information was formulated into a professional presentation which was provided to mental health providers to increase their knowledge of the disorder and its impact. The presentation focused on defining the disorder, illuminating its impact on child development, and providing resources for clients and clinicians working in this area of mental health. Limitations to the project as well as recommendations for future areas of study are considered.