An investigation of the mediators of the relationship between social support and positive health practices in pregnant women

This study developed and tested theory to gain a better understanding of positive health practices in pregnant women. This correlational study examined the relationship between the dependent variable of positive health practices in pregnant women and each of the independent variables of (a) social support, (b) perceived health status, and (c) optimism. In addition, this study tested the relationships between social support and each of the dependent variables of perceived health status and optimism. This study further examined the relationship between social support and positive health practices by testing two mediational models with the variables of perceived health status and optimism, developed through theory and research.;A sample of convenience of 152 pregnant women, aged 20 to 40, was recruited from childbirth education classes provided by (a) a physician group practice located in a suburban setting in the northwest regional area of New Jersey, (b) a Catholic hospital located in an urban setting in the central regional area of New Jersey, and (c) a Catholic hospital located in a suburban setting in the northwest regional area of New Jersey. Participants completed the study instrument packet which included a demographic data sheet and four instruments.;There were statistically significant positively relationships between the dependent variable of positive health practices. There were statistically significant positive relationships between the dependent variables of perceived health status and optimism with the independent variable of social support. Perceived health status and optimism failed to act as mediators in the relationship between social support and positive health practices.;The findings of this study support the conclusion that social support, perceived health status, and optimism are positively related to positive health practices in pregnant women and that social support is positively related to perceived health status and optimism; these findings were consistent with theory. The mediational models constructed from theory and research were not supported; neither perceived health status nor optimism were significant mediators in the relationship between social support and positive health practices. Implications for nursing practice were addressed and recommendations for future research were identified.