Depression in female and male burn survivors six months after hospitalization: Including the role of body image dissatisfaction and partner support

Abstract

Burn survivors may suffer from depression as a result of burn injuries. This study examines burn survivors’ level of depression at six months post-burn, including the influence of body image dissatisfaction and partner support on depression (partner support at three months post- burn). Participants that were used in this study included 266 burn survivors. Burn survivors’ body image dissatisfaction, depression, and partner support were measured by the SWAP scale, the BDI-II, and the POSR scale. Body image dissatisfaction, %TBSA, prior suffering from depression, gender, and partner support were measured as possible predictors of depression. In addition, body image dissatisfaction was measured as a possible mediator between %TBSA and depression, and gender and depression. Body image dissatisfaction, %TBSA, and gender were found to have a significant effect on burn survivors’ depression post-burn injury. Higher levels of body image dissatisfaction and higher %TBSA levels predicted higher depression levels. Females scored higher on body image dissatisfaction and depression compared to males. Body image dissatisfaction was found to have a mediating role between the relationship of %TBSA and depression, and the relationship between gender and depression. Prior suffering from depression and partner support did not have a significant effect on depression post-burn injury. When treating depression in burn survivors, gender differences, including body image dissatisfaction, should be considered.