Maternal Role Adaptation

Successful maternal role adaptation is described as protective for perinatal mental health. Maternal role adaptation is measured at all three study time points using the Chinese Revised Coping Adaptation Process Scale. The maternal role adaptation scale includes four dimensions covering focus, predictability, stability, and orderliness. The study treats pregnancy in first-time pregnant women as a developmental transition requiring psychological, social, cognitive, and behavioural adjustment toward a maternal role. Inadequate maternal role adaptation is identified as an independent predictor of antenatal depression and anxiety.