The present article examines some theoretical aspects and empirical studies related to the impact of postpartum depression to mother-child interaction. The characteristics of postpartum depression and the risk factors related to its occurrence are also examined. Furthermore, it discusses the consequences of maternal depressed state to mother-child interaction and to child development. The revised studies suggest that postpartum depression negatively affects the mother-child interaction quality, particularly maternal responsivity. On the other hand, studies show that postpartum depression effects on mother-child interaction depend on various factors, which makes it impossible for us to make predictions based on any isolated factor.
postpartum depression; mother-child interaction; socio-emotional development