A longitudinal study of infant's social-emotional development and the implications of extra-parental care

Abstract

A longitudinal study was conducted of infants, some of whom had experienced substantial non-parental care, and some of whom had not. The behaviour of these infants was observed during a set sequence of separation and reunions involving the mother and regular care-giver. Results were analyzed in terms of individual stability, developmental patterns, and inter-group differences. These were differences in socio-emotional behaviour associated with day care experience. The results are discussed in relation to attachment theory.