Publication
Title
Depressive symptoms and self-harm among youngsters referred to child welfare: The role of trust in caregiver support and communication
Author
Abstract
Depressive symptoms and self-harm, i.e. non-suicidal self-injury and suicidal behaviors, are highly prevalent in youngsters involved in Child Welfare System (CWS) services. Little research investigates, however, why these CWS youngsters are at risk. We explored whether trust in caregiver support and communication about experiences with primary caregivers, are associated with CWS youngsters' depressive symptoms and/or self-harm. An anonymous online survey of 271 CWS youngsters (10-21 years of age, 57.2% female) was used to assess trust and communication, and depressive symptoms/self-harm. Results showed significant negative associations between self-reported trust in maternal and paternal support, and depressive symptoms/self-harm. Communication about experiences with one's biological mother mediated the relationship between trust in maternal support and depressive symptoms/self-harm. Furthermore, the presence of an additional trustworthy caregiver buffered the impact of low trust in maternal or paternal support on depressive symptoms/self-harm. Implications for interventions targeting CWS youngsters' depressive symptoms and self-harm are discussed.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Child abuse and neglect. - Oxford
Publication
Oxford : 2018
ISSN
0145-2134
DOI
10.1016/J.CHIABU.2018.01.001
Volume/pages
77 (2018) , p. 155-167
ISI
000429083500015
Pubmed ID
29353719
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 04.05.2018
Last edited 02.10.2024
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