Publicação

Shattered maternal identity and early childhood depression

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Detalhes bibliográficos
Resumo:Abstract Introduction: Depression in early childhood was first described by Spitz in 1940. The literature reports an association between depressive symptoms in infants and early affective deprivation, pinpointing maternal depression as a major risk factor. However, there is little evidence on the impact of maternal comorbid depression and gender dysphoria on the risk of depression in early childhood. Case report: A 25-month-old toddler was referred to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Outpatient Department for persistent irritability and sleep disturbances. His mother had persistent depressive disorder and had never felt comfortable in her role as a mother, struggling with caregiving and responding to the child’s emotional needs. During follow-up, maternal symptoms of gender dysphoria were identified. Discussion: Mother-infant bonding and responsive caregiving are essential for adequate socioemotional development.
Autores principais:Rodrigues,Sara Gomes
Outros Autores:Pinto,Pedro Samuel; Martins,Vânia Miranda
Assunto:child neglect depressive disorder gender dysphoria
Ano:2023
País:Portugal
Tipo de documento:relatório
Tipo de acesso:acesso aberto
Instituição associada:Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia
Idioma:inglês
Origem:SciELO Portugal
Descrição
Resumo:Abstract Introduction: Depression in early childhood was first described by Spitz in 1940. The literature reports an association between depressive symptoms in infants and early affective deprivation, pinpointing maternal depression as a major risk factor. However, there is little evidence on the impact of maternal comorbid depression and gender dysphoria on the risk of depression in early childhood. Case report: A 25-month-old toddler was referred to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Outpatient Department for persistent irritability and sleep disturbances. His mother had persistent depressive disorder and had never felt comfortable in her role as a mother, struggling with caregiving and responding to the child’s emotional needs. During follow-up, maternal symptoms of gender dysphoria were identified. Discussion: Mother-infant bonding and responsive caregiving are essential for adequate socioemotional development.