Disparities in healthcare utilization and depression among young mothers: The role of family functioning.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Extant research suggests that disparities in healthcare utilization and experiences of mental health disorders such as depression exist across sociodemographic groups. One understudied pathway that may have significant implications for these disparities is the role of family functioning. How families interact, communicate, and adapt may vary, but these relationships remain integral for vulnerable subsets of the population due to their seemingly protective properties. Yet, few studies have examined the relationship between family functioning and health.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore family functioning as a predictor for healthcare utilization and depression among young mothers and as a moderator of disparities for each of these outcomes.

Design/

SUBMITTER: Whittaker S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10542225 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature