The continuity of maternal sensitivity from infancy to toddler age

Abstract

This study examined the stability of maternal sensitivity from infancy to 2 years of age, and the risk factors for dyssyncrony in mother–child interaction. The interactive style of 75 mother–child dyads was assessed using the CARE‐Index when the child was aged 6–8 weeks and 24 months. Maternal mood was assessed before delivery (the GHQ and health care contacts), and 4 months (the EPDS) and 24 months (the GHQ) after delivery. Results showed that the CARE‐Index scores of maternal sensitivity correlated significantly between the two assessment points. Furthermore, there was a moderate chance (79%) that sensitivity would remain in the same dichotomized category above or below the intervention level. Low maternal sensitivity and high maternal control predicted low child cooperation 2 years later. Dyads assessed as low in maternal sensitivity at both assessment points were identified in the interaction in infancy according to very low scorings in sensitivity and in affect items, and very high scorings in either control or unresponsiveness. Furthermore, 80% of the mothers with low sensitivity reported prenatal depressive symptoms. This study suggests that the dyads at risk of continuing problems in interaction can be identified early for intervention.

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by Nokia Corporation and the Finnish Child Psychiatry Research Foundation and Child Psychiatry Research Foundation in Kuopio, Finland.