title: Maternal-infant attachment: a developmental perspective.
abstract: The formation of a close and satisfying maternal-infant bond is recognized as being an important contribution to the optimal psychosocial development of the child. However the relationship that develops between mother and infant is increasingly seen as an ongoing developmental process rather than a postpartum event, occurring in the first few days after birth. It is also being increasingly recognized that there are a multitude of factors during this period which affect the development of this relationship (14, 15, 16, 17). The father too plays an important role at this time, and his reactions to the birth as well as the support he is able to offer his wife are determinants in the evolving maternal-infant relationship. The view of bonding as an ongoing developmental process influenced by both ante- and postnatal factors, indicates some flexibility of response on the part of the mother when things do not go according to plan. For example, separation of mother and infant in the case of a premature delivery need not have an adverse effect on the development of the maternal-infant relationship provided that there is adequate support for the parents. Well trained I.C.U. staff and hospital practices that are sensitive to the needs of the parents at this time are important determinants here. It is felt that the success of the video programme, and the results of the long-term follow-up programme conducted at the Queen Victoria Hospital support this developmental view.
authors.forename: P G
authors.initials: PG
authors.lastname: Mertin
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D009034:Mother-Child Relations; D009769:Object Attachment; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000523:psychology*