The Role of Spousal Support in Shaping Mental Health Dynamics Among Working Mothers in Bangladesh

Abstract

The mental health status of working mothers plays a critical role in a child’s upbringing due to its profound influence on various aspects of child development. This research examines the effects of stress, depression, and spousal support on working mothers’ lives. This cross-sectional study includes 275 participants to analyze these behavioral tendencies. Measurement methods were validated through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and item response theory (IRT), while the interdependence of constructs and the efficacy of the chosen indicators were assessed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM). Our research reveals a positive relationship between depression and the stress faced by working mothers. Spousal support is inversely connected with both stress and depression. The research highlights the key role of partner support in alleviating mental health difficulties for working mothers. Consequently, strengthening the family support system for working mothers has become essential to alleviate their psychological stress. Enhancing early identification and treatment can be achieved by increasing spousal engagement and establishing mental health awareness programs.