Systematic Empirical Investigation of Vulnerability to Postpartum Depression From a Psychodynamic Perspective: Commentary on Issues Raised by Blum (2007)

In a recent paper, Lawrence Blum (2007) identified emotional conflicts in three areas typical in postpartum depression: (1) dependency, (2) aggression, and (3) motherhood. In this commentary, the authors consider agreements and disagreements with Blum's views on the psychodynamics of postpartum depression. In contrast to Blum's assertion, a theoretically derived extensive empirical psychoanalytic database exists which confirms and extends Blum's analysis of the core dynamics involved in this disorder. This recent research derives primarily from the comprehensive theoretical framework proposed by Blatt (1974, 2004, 2006, 2008) on the psychodynamics of depression that are part of a broad theory of normal and pathological personality development which Blum (2007), in his otherwise thorough search of the literature, seems to have overlooked. The authors close with reflections on how psychoanalysis and psychodynamically inspired research might increasingly influence mainstream clinical practice and research.