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Depression as a moderator in the relation between mothers' and daughters' ethnic identity commitment
Linda C Halgunseth1, Stephanie Milan2, Kevin Hynes1
1Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Connecticut.
Maternal depressive symptoms influence the connection between mothers and daughters ethnic identity commitment. A strong mother-daughter ethnic identity link exists when mothers have low depressive symptoms, but a negative link appears when mothers have high depressive symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Ethnic identity commitment is crucial for adolescent development.
- Maternal mental health, specifically depressive symptoms, may impact family dynamics.
- Understanding these factors is vital for supporting girls of color.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the moderating role of maternal depressive symptoms.
- To examine the association between mothers' and daughters' ethnic identity commitment.
Main Methods:
- 165 mother-adolescent daughter dyads participated.
- Participants included diverse ethnic backgrounds (Latina, African American/Black, Asian, Native American, Middle Eastern).
- Mothers and daughters self-reported on ethnic identity commitment and maternal depressive symptoms.
Main Results:
- No direct association was found between mothers' and daughters' ethnic identity commitment.
- A significant interaction revealed that mothers' and daughters' ethnic identity commitment were positively related when maternal depressive symptoms were low.
- Conversely, a negative relationship was observed when maternal depressive symptoms were high.
Conclusions:
- Maternal depressive symptoms significantly moderate the association between mothers' and daughters' ethnic identity commitment.
- Clinicians should address maternal depressive symptoms to foster positive self-concepts in girls of color.
- Promoting mothers' ethnic group attachment is recommended for strengthening daughters' self-concept.
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