Maternal Depressive Symptoms in Relation to Dimensions of Parenting in Low-Income Mothers

Relations between maternal depressive symptoms and parenting were examined in low-income, inner-city mothers and their 18- to 24-month-old toddlers. Maternal de-pressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiological Studies De-pression Scale (CES–D) depression inventory, and 3 dimensions of parenting were as-sessed from maternal interviews and home visits: (a) provision of age-appropriate play materials, (b) organization of the home environment, and (c) quality of moth-er–child interactions. Maternal depressive symptoms related inversely to the quality of mother–child interactions, but did not relate to the provision of play materials and organization of the home environment. High scores on the CES–D were associated with less sensitivity, engagement, affection, and more rigidity in mothers; with less compliance, affection, engagement, and gentleness in children. In addition, higher CES–D scores were associated with less mutual communication, reciprocity, and en-joyment in the dyad. Neither socioeconomic status, maternal IQ, nor absence–pres-ence of a partner related directly to parenting. These findings suggest that maternal depressive symptoms play a key role in the quality of mother–child interactions.