Abstract
M.A.
Since its legalisation in this country, abortion has become a controversial subject
in religious, social and judicial circles. However, little is known about the
relationship between depression and the possible side effects that may be
produced by the procedure. Indeed, the possible impact of social variables and
personality traits have been receiving more attention in recent research in an
effort to identify those at risk for negative symptoms. This study was carried out
on a group of 42 women from the Soweto and Jeppe Street Marie Stopes clinics.
The women were assesse·d according to locus of control, depression and certain
psychosocial variables. As expected, the overall levels of depression among
these women, who largely represent the underprivileged segment of the
community, were very high. Although no significant relationship could be
established between locus of control and depression following abortion, certain
social variables were identified as possible risk factors for de.ffipession after
having an abortion.