Multi-level Model of Parent-Child Attachment, Depression & Self-Concept in Pediatric Chronic Illness

<p>Introduction: Pediatric patients may be at higher risk for depression and a lower self-concept when difficulties within the family arise. The Mastering Each New Direction (MEND) program is a psychosocial intervention aimed at addressing adherence and family issues in adolescent CI. Methods: Drawing data from 50 MEND participants, we used multilevel modeling techniques to test changes in self-concept over time as predicted by number of weeks in MEND, depression, family cohesion and flexibility, and baseline levels of maternal and paternal attachment. Results: At Level 1, depression negatively predicted self-concept over time. At Level 2, higher baseline maternal and paternal avoidant attachment predicted higher initial self-concept. Higher maternal avoidant attachment was also associated with a stronger relationship between self-concept and depression. Discussion: Given that avoidant attachment predicted affective well-being and identity stabilization in youth with CI, targeting the parent-child relationship may be key to reducing co-morbid psychological issues in this population. Programs like MEND by focusing on family well-being and health may help adolescents individuate while maintaining adherence.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Psychology

Year

2016

Author dc:creator

• Emerson, Natacha Donoghue

Contributors dc:contributor

• Neece, Cameron L.
• Distelberg, Brian
• Morrell, Holly E. R.

• Child Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Psychology
• Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Depression; Chronic Disease -- child; Pediatrics;
• Parent-Child Attachment; Self-Concept; Mastering Each New Direction (MEND) Program; Avoidant Attachment

Statement dc:rights

• This title appears here courtesy of the author, who has granted Loma Linda University a limited, non-exclusive right to make this publication available to the public. The author retains all other copyrights.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholarsrepository.llu.edu/etd/375

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarsrepository.llu.edu:etd-1373