Further evidence for the multidimensional nature of maternal sensitivity: differential links with child socioemotional functioning at preschool age |
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| Authors: | Annie Bernier George M Tarabulsy Chantal Cyr Célia Matte-Gagné |
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| Institution: | 1. University of Montreal, Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Brain and Learning, and University Center for Research on Youth and Families, Montreal, QC, Canada;2. Laval University and University Center for Research on Youth and Families, Quebec, QC, Canada;3. University of Quebec at Montreal and University Research Institute for Youth in Difficulty (Institut-Universitaire Jeune en Difficulté), Montreal, QC, Canada |
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| Abstract: | There has been increasing scholarly attention to the study of maternal sensitivity as a multidimensional construct. This report investigated the predictive value of three dimensions of sensitivity during mother–infant interactions in an effort to gain greater understanding of how specific facets of sensitivity relate to child socioemotional outcomes. Maternal cooperation/attunement (accurate interpretation of infant cues and capacity to adjust the interaction correspondingly), positivity (positive attitude toward the infant), and accessibility/availability (consistent attentiveness) were assessed observationally in 195 mothers of 1-year-old infants. Child socioemotional functioning was assessed using behavioral tasks and maternal and teacher reports when children were 4 years of age. The results revealed that maternal accessibility/availability was predictive of less externalizing behavior, more prosocial behavior (mother- and teacher-reported), and better theory of mind, while maternal positivity predicted effortful control. These results highlight the advantages of a multidimensional assessment in understanding how sensitivity predicts different developmental outcomes. |
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| Keywords: | maternal sensitivity mother–infant interaction socioemotional functioning longitudinal multidimensional |
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