Positive psychological capital and antenatal depression: the chain-mediating roles of social support and maternal health literacy in rural China.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Antenatal depression (AND) is a common complication during pregnancy, particularly in rural China, where access to mental health resources is limited. This study aimed to examine the relationship between positive psychological capital (PsyCap) and AND, and to explore the mediating roles of maternal health literacy (MHL) and social support (SS).

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,683 pregnant women from seven rural regions in China. Participants completed validated instruments measuring PsyCap, SS, MHL, and AND. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlations, hierarchical regression, and structural equation modeling. Mediation effects were tested with 5,000 samples bootstrapping.

Results

A total of 51.1% of participants screened positive f

SUBMITTER: Wang SY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12642160 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature