Maternal psychopathology and infant attachment security: a meta-analysis
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Date
2016
Authors
Barnes, Jennifer
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Abstract
Mothers who are experiencing psychopathology are often unable to provide sensitivity to their infants, which is critical for the development of a secure attachment. The objective of the current study was to provide a statistical, quantitative consensus on the relationship between maternal psychopathology and infant attachment, by performing a number of meta-analyses. Prevalence rates of non-secure attachment in infants of mothers with overall and specific psychopathologies were calculated. Infants of mothers with psychopathology were also found to be at increased risk for developing a non-secure attachment, displayed significantly greater levels of attachment non-security, and there was a significant relationship between symptomology and non-security. Moderator analyses were also run to determine if any variables moderated this relationship. The results of this study indicate that it may be beneficial for clinicians to identify mother-infant dyads who may benefit from early interventions that focus on improving maternal mental health and enhancing infant attachment.
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Keywords
Attachment, Psychopathology, Mother-infant relations