The Impact of a Child’s Disability Diagnosis on Caregiver Depressive Symptoms and Variation Across Socio – Demographic Groups in South Africa: A Cross- Sectional Analysis Restricted; Files Only

Abstract

Abstract

 

The Impact of a Child’s Disability Diagnosis on Caregiver Depressive Symptoms and Variation Across Socio – Demographic Groups in South Africa: A Cross- Sectional Analysis 

 

By Hermala G. Hailegabriel

 

 

Background and Objective 

The mental health impact on caregivers of children with disabilities is an important public health issue, particularly in South Africa. This study aims to explore the relationship between a child’s disability diagnosis and depressive symptoms among their caregivers across various socio- demographic groups. 

 

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with 13,619 South African caregivers using data from the National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS). The study assessed the presence of probable depression, using the 10-item CES-D, among caregivers of disabled and non-disabled children, employing logistic regression models. Models adjusted for potential confounders, including age, education, employment status, household income, gender, marital status, and receipt of child grants. We tested if the relationship was modified by education, employment status, household income, gender, marital status, and receipt of child grants. 

 

Results

Crude logistic regression models revealed that caregivers of disabled children had a 29.9% increased odds of experiencing significant depressive symptoms compared to those without disabled children [Odds Ratio (OR) of 1.299 and 95% Confidence Interval (95%CI) between (1.062 – 1.590)]. In models that adjusted for confounders, the odds among caregivers with a disabled child increased to 33.4% (OR = 1.334 and 95%CI: (1.087 – 1.638)). Although there was no evidence of effect measure modification (p > 0.05), further stratum – specific analysis was conducted to describe differences between subgroups.  

 

Conclusion

Caregivers of children with disabilities in South Africa experience significantly higher odds of depressive symptoms, highlighting the need for targeted mental health interventions in this population. It is also important to consider the importance of tailored interventions that address the impacts across different socio- demographic groups.   

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................1

Public Health Significance..................................................................................................................................... 4

Specific Aims:........................................................................................................................................................ 5

Methodology ................................................................................................................................................... 6

Data Source and Setting ...................................................................................................................................... 6

Study Population .................................................................................................................................................. 6

Study Design ......................................................................................................................................................... 6

Variables ............................................................................................................................................................... 7

Analytic Approach................................................................................................................................................. 8

Logistic Regression ............................................................................................................................................... 5

Results ............................................................................................................................................................ 9

Participant Characteristics.................................................................................................................................... 9

Type of Child Illness / Disability .......................................................................................................................... 11

Child Disability and Depression .......................................................................................................................... 11

Testing Effect Measure Modification ................................................................................................................ 14 ............................................................................................................................................................................ 14

Discussions and Conclusions...........................................................................................................................20

Strengths and Limitations .................................................................................................................................. 22

Conclusion and future directions .................................................................................................................... 24

References ............................................................................................................................................................... 24

About this Master's Thesis

Rights statement

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School	Rollins School of Public Health
Department	Epidemiology
Subfield / Discipline	Epidemiology - MPH & MSPH
Degree	M.P.H.
Submission	Master's Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	South African Studies Psychology, General
Keyword	Child's Disability Diagnosis Caregivers' Depressive Symptoms
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Robin A. Richardson, Emory University

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