|
1
|
Simon V, Spencer R, Zitzmann S, Shai D, Vitinius F, Ramsauer B. Identifying embodied risk and protective factors in mothers with postpartum depression and comorbidities using Parental Embodied Mentalizing Assessment™. J Affect Disord 2025; 381:669-679. [PMID: 40209861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2025.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2025] [Revised: 04/02/2025] [Accepted: 04/03/2025] [Indexed: 04/12/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinically, postpartum depression (PPD) is frequently diagnosed with maternal comorbid mental disorders (postpartum anxiety, PPA; personality disorders, PDs) in mothers. Its association with impaired Parental Embodied Mentalizing (PEM) remains unclear. This study aims to investigate embodied risk and protective factors of parental mentalizing in PPD-mothers. More risk factors and fewer protective factors were hypothesized as a function of comorbidities. METHOD Sixty-eight mothers with infants aged 3-10 months were examined using the Parental Embodied Mentalizing Assessment™ (PEMA™) on a 5-minute videotaped free-play interaction. Six subgroups were compared according to DSM-IV diagnoses: PPD; PPD and PPA; PPD and Borderline PD (BPD); PPD, PPA, and BPD; PPD and other PDs; and PPD, PPA, and other PDs. RESULTS Overall, variable subgroup differences were observed (d = 0.9-1.09): PPD-mothers demonstrated the highest and PPD-mothers with BPD the lowest protective factors, in particular Sustained Presence. PPD-mothers with PPA and other PDs showed the lowest interactive Repair, and PPD-mothers with other PDs the highest Connectivity. There were no substantial group differences in risk factors. However, PPD-mothers with BPD displayed the highest Teasing and Objectification, i.e., treating the infant as an inanimate object. CONCLUSION In the case of PPD, comorbidities must be taken into account, as they primarily impact the protective character of the mother's embodied communication during infancy. Comorbid BPD is associated with fewer protective and more risk factors, whereas comorbid PPA and/or other PDs are associated with increased over-control. Further research is needed to validate the PEMA™ factors, including a non-clinical control group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Simon
- Faculty of Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg - University of Applied Sciences and Medical University, Am Kaiserkai 1, 20457 Hamburg, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Robert Bosch Hospital, Auerbachstraße 110, 70376 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Rose Spencer
- CNWL Perinatal Mental Health Service, 350 Euston Road, London NW1 3AX, UK.
| | - Steffen Zitzmann
- Faculty of Humanities, MSH Medical School Hamburg - University of Applied Sciences and Medical University, Am Kaiserkai 1, 20457 Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Dana Shai
- School of Behavioral Studies, Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yafo, Rabenu Yeruham St., P.O.B 8401 Yaffo, 6818211, Israel.
| | - Frank Vitinius
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Robert Bosch Hospital, Auerbachstraße 110, 70376 Stuttgart, Germany; Department of Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Weyertal 76, 50931 Cologne, Germany.
| | - Brigitte Ramsauer
- Faculty of Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg - University of Applied Sciences and Medical University, Am Kaiserkai 1, 20457 Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
|
2
|
de Oliveira CVR, Bordignon SS, Martins RC, Blumenberg C, Martins-Silva T, Costa F, Cesar J, Springer P, de Mola CL. Trajectories of maternal depression, anxiety, stress, and child developmental milestones at 24 months. J Child Adolesc Ment Health 2025:1-15. [PMID: 40202424 DOI: 10.2989/17280583.2025.2452533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2025]
Abstract
Background: Literature suggests a link between maternal mental health and adverse child developmental outcomes. However, we do not know to what extent this is true in low and middle-income settings, and most studies do not explore mental health longitudinally since birth.Objective: We aimed to assess the association between maternal mental health and early child development outcomes in southern Brazil.Methods: We studied 992 mother-child pairs in a birth cohort from 2019 to 2022. We used standardised instruments to assess maternal depression, anxiety, and distress at different time points during the perinatal period. We used Group Based Trajectory Modelling to create maternal mental health trajectories. We assessed these trajectories associated with the child's social, language, cognitive, and motor development at 24 months using Poisson multiple regression models.Results: Children of mothers with elevated symptoms of depression experienced an 80% [RR = 1.80; 95%CI(1.19-2.71)] increase in language delays, 23% [RR = 1.23; 95%CI(1.01-1.51)] in cognitive delays, and 40% [RR = 1.40; 95%CI(1.07-1.83)] in motor delays. Children of mothers experiencing increasing symptoms of anxiety to moderate levels had 38% [RR = 1.38' 95%CI(1.07-1.82)] more language delays and 20% [RR = 1.20; 95%CI(1.05-1.38)] more cognitive delays. Low subjective distress led to 54% [RR = 1.54; 95%CI(1.15-2.05)] more language delays.Conclusion: Our findings underscore the effect of maternal mental health on child developmental outcomes among this sample in southern Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rafaela Costa Martins
- GPIS Grupo de Pesquisa e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Causale consultoria, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Cauane Blumenberg
- GPIS Grupo de Pesquisa e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Causale consultoria, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Thais Martins-Silva
- GPIS Grupo de Pesquisa e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Francine Costa
- GPIS Grupo de Pesquisa e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Juraci Cesar
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Federal University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Paul Springer
- Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States of Ameerica
| | - Christian Loret de Mola
- GPIS Grupo de Pesquisa e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Federal University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Department, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
|
3
|
Şipoş R, Calugar I, Predescu E. Neurodevelopmental Impact of Maternal Postnatal Depression: A Systematic Review of EEG Biomarkers in Infants. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2025; 12:396. [PMID: 40310038 PMCID: PMC12026314 DOI: 10.3390/children12040396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2025] [Revised: 03/18/2025] [Accepted: 03/19/2025] [Indexed: 05/02/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Postpartum depression (PPD) significantly impacts maternal well-being and child neurodevelopment. While the etiology of PPD is well understood, the precise neurodevelopmental consequences, particularly differentiating prenatal and postnatal effects, remain unclear. This systematic review aims to synthesize the existing literature on the neurophysiological effects of maternal PPD on infant neurodevelopment, focusing on electroencephalography (EEG) biomarkers to identify consistent patterns and potential mediating factors. METHODS A comprehensive literature search across PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus identified studies investigating infants (0-12 months) exposed to maternal depressive symptoms (assessed via validated psychometric instruments) with quantitative EEG data. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. Eleven investigated EEG asymmetry, predominantly frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA). The findings consistently showed greater right FAA in the infants of mothers with PPD, suggesting increased negative affectivity and avoidance behaviors. This association was stronger with prolonged or combined prenatal/postnatal exposure. However, EEG power and connectivity findings were less consistent, with some studies reporting altered occipital power at 1 month and frontal power at 3 months in the infants of depressed mothers. No significant associations were found between maternal depression and functional connectivity. CONCLUSIONS This review demonstrates a robust association between maternal PPD and altered infant EEG patterns, particularly increased right FAA. However, methodological heterogeneity necessitates future research with standardized protocols and longitudinal designs to establish causality and investigate long-term effects. Further research should also explore the underlying neural mechanisms and evaluate the efficacy of targeted interventions. These findings underscore the need for early identification and intervention to mitigate the negative impact of PPD on infant neurodevelopment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Şipoş
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Pediatric Psychiatry, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Calea Manastur Street No. 54C, 400658 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iulia Calugar
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Pediatric Psychiatry, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Calea Manastur Street No. 54C, 400658 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Babeş-Bolyai University, 37 Republicii Street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Elena Predescu
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Pediatric Psychiatry, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Calea Manastur Street No. 54C, 400658 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
|
4
|
Sacks DD, Wang Y, Abron A, Mulligan KM, Kelsey CM, Xie W, Nelson CA, Bosquet Enlow M. EEG frontal alpha asymmetry mediates the association between maternal and child internalizing symptoms in childhood. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2025. [PMID: 39956790 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.14129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in youth and can cause significant distress and functional impairment. The presence of maternal anxiety and depression are well-established risk factors for child internalizing psychopathology, yet the responsible mechanisms linking the two remain unclear. METHODS We examined the potential mediating and moderating roles of EEG frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) in the intergenerational transmission of internalizing symptoms in a longitudinal sample of N = 323 mother-child dyads. Self-report maternal internalizing symptoms were evaluated at child age 3 years and 5 years, child EEG at 5 years, and parent-report child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years. Mediation was evaluated via bootstrapped (N = 5,000) confidence intervals. RESULTS We found significant associations among maternal internalizing (anxiety, depressive) symptoms when their children were ages 3 and 5 years, child FAA at age 5 years, and child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years. There was a significant mediation effect, whereby greater maternal anxiety and depressive symptoms at age 3 years were significantly associated with FAA (greater relative right cortical activation) in children at age 5 years, which, in turn, was significantly associated with greater child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years (ps < .001). There was no moderating effect of FAA on the association between maternal internalizing symptoms at age 5 years and child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years. CONCLUSIONS Greater right frontal asymmetry may be a neurophysiological mechanism that mediates the intergenerational transmission of internalizing symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dashiell D Sacks
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yiyi Wang
- Department of Psychology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Asja Abron
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kaitlin M Mulligan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caroline M Kelsey
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wanze Xie
- School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Charles A Nelson
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Graduate School of Education, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Michelle Bosquet Enlow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
5
|
Sacks DD, Wang Y, Abron A, Mulligan KM, Kelsey CM, Xie W, Nelson CA, Enlow MB. EEG frontal alpha asymmetry mediates the association between maternal and child internalizing symptoms in childhood. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.09.15.24313329. [PMID: 39371138 PMCID: PMC11451637 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.15.24313329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/08/2024]
Abstract
Background Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in youth and can cause significant distress and functional impairment. The presence of maternal anxiety and depression are well-established risk factors for child internalizing psychopathology, yet the responsible mechanisms linking the two remain unclear. Methods We examined the potential mediating and moderating roles of EEG frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) in the intergenerational transmission of internalizing symptoms in a longitudinal sample of N = 323 mother-child dyads. Self-report maternal internalizing symptoms were evaluated at child age 3 years and 5 years, child EEG at 5 years, and parent-report child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years. Mediation was evaluated via bootstrapped ( N = 5000) confidence intervals. Results We found significant associations among maternal internalizing (anxiety, depressive) symptoms at child ages 3 and 5 years, child FAA at age 5 years, and child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years. There was a significant mediation effect, whereby greater maternal anxiety and depressive symptoms at age 3 years were significantly associated with greater relative right FAA in children at age 5 years, which, in turn, was significantly associated with greater child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years ( ps <.001). There was no moderating effect of FAA on the association between maternal internalizing symptoms at age 5 years and child internalizing symptoms at age 7 years. Conclusions Greater right frontal asymmetry may be a neurophysiological mechanism that mediates the intergenerational transmission of internalizing symptoms.
Collapse
|
|
6
|
Mandl S, Alexopoulos J, Doering S, Wildner B, Seidl R, Bartha-Doering L. The effect of prenatal maternal distress on offspring brain development: A systematic review. Early Hum Dev 2024; 192:106009. [PMID: 38642513 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2024.106009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal maternal distress can negatively affect pregnancy outcomes, yet its impact on the offspring's brain structure and function remains unclear. This systematic review summarizes the available literature on the relationship between prenatal maternal distress and brain development in fetuses and infants up to 12 months of age. METHODS We searched Central, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and PSYNDEXplus for studies published between database inception and December 2023. Studies were included if prenatal maternal anxiety, stress, and/or depression was assessed, neuroimaging was used to examine the offspring, and the offspring's brain was imaged within the first year of life. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-II. RESULTS Out of the 1516 studies retrieved, 71 met our inclusion criteria. Although the studies varied greatly in their methodology, the results generally pointed to structural and functional aberrations in the limbic system, prefrontal cortex, and insula in fetuses and infants prenatally exposed to maternal distress. CONCLUSIONS The hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex have a high density of glucocorticoid receptors, which play a key role in adapting to stressors and maintaining stress-related homeostasis. We thus conclude that in utero exposure to maternal distress prompts these brain regions to adapt by undergoing structural and functional changes, with the consequence that these alterations increase the risk for developing a neuropsychiatric illness later on. Future research should investigate the effect of providing psychological support for pregnant women on the offspring's early brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Mandl
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Johanna Alexopoulos
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Department of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephan Doering
- Department of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Brigitte Wildner
- University Library, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rainer Seidl
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lisa Bartha-Doering
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
|
7
|
Swider-Cios E, Turk E, Levy J, Beeghly M, Vroomen J, van den Heuvel MI. The association of maternal-infant interactive behavior, dyadic frontal alpha asymmetry, and maternal anxiety in a smartphone-adapted still face paradigm. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2024; 66:101352. [PMID: 38310719 PMCID: PMC10847859 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2024.101352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Mother-infant interactions form a strong basis for emotion regulation development in infants. These interactions can be affected by various factors, including maternal postnatal anxiety. Electroencephalography (EEG) hyperscanning allows for simultaneous assessment of mother-infant brain-to-behavior association during stressful events, such as the still-face paradigm (SFP). This study aimed at investigating dyadic interactive behavior and brain-to-behavior association across SFP and identifying neural correlates of mother-infant interactions in the context of maternal postnatal anxiety. We measured frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA), a physiological correlate of emotion regulation and a potential marker of risk for psychopathology. To emulate real-life interactions, EEG and behavioral data were collected from 38 mother-infant dyads during a smartphone-adapted dual-SFP. Although the behavioral data showed a clear still-face effect for the smartphone-adapted SFP, this was not reflected in the infant or maternal FAA. Brain-to-behavior data showed higher infant negative affect being associated with more infant leftward FAA during the still-face episodes. Finally, mothers with higher postnatal anxiety showed more right FAA during the first still-face episode, suggesting negative affectivity and a need to withdraw from the situation. Our results form a baseline for further research assessing the effects of maternal postnatal anxiety on infants' FAA and dyadic interactive behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edyta Swider-Cios
- Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology, Tilburg University, Warandelaan 2, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Elise Turk
- Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology, Tilburg University, Warandelaan 2, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands; Department of Neonatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jonathan Levy
- Department of Criminology and Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002 Israel; Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Rakentajanaukio 2, 02150, Espoo, Finland
| | - Marjorie Beeghly
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, 5057 Woodward Ave, Detroit, USA
| | - Jean Vroomen
- Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology, Tilburg University, Warandelaan 2, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Marion I van den Heuvel
- Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology, Tilburg University, Warandelaan 2, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
|
8
|
Hernandez A, Sania A, Bowers ME, Leach SC, McSweeney M, Yoder L, Fifer W, Elliott AJ, Shuffrey L, Rauh V, Him DA, Fox NA, Morales S. Examining the impact of prenatal maternal internalizing symptoms and socioeconomic status on children's frontal alpha asymmetry and psychopathology. Dev Psychobiol 2024; 66:e22476. [PMID: 38433442 PMCID: PMC10936576 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal maternal internalizing psychopathology (depression and anxiety) and socioeconomic status (SES) have been independently associated with higher risk for internalizing and externalizing problems in children. However, the pathways behind these associations are not well understood. Numerous studies have linked greater right frontal alpha asymmetry to internalizing problems; however, findings have been mixed. Several studies have also linked maternal internalizing psychopathology to children's frontal alpha asymmetry. Additionally, emerging studies have linked SES to children's frontal alpha asymmetry. To date, only a limited number of studies have examined these associations within a longitudinal design, and the majority have utilized relatively small samples. The current preregistered study utilizes data from a large prospective study of young children (N = 415; Meanage = 7.27 years; Rangeage = 5-11 years) to examine the association between prenatal maternal internalizing symptoms, children's frontal alpha asymmetry, and behavior problems. Prenatal maternal internalizing symptoms did not predict children's frontal alpha asymmetry, and there was no association between frontal alpha asymmetry and behavior problems. However, mothers' internalizing symptoms during pregnancy predicted children's internalizing and externalizing outcomes. Non-preregistered analyses showed that lower prenatal maternal SES predicted greater child right frontal alpha asymmetry and internalizing problems. Additional non-preregistered analyses did not find evidence for frontal alpha asymmetry as a moderator of the relation between prenatal maternal internalizing psychopathology and SES to children's behavior problems. Future research should examine the impact of SES on children's frontal alpha asymmetry in high-risk samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayesha Sania
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
| | - Maureen E. Bowers
- Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology, University of Maryland - College Park
| | | | - Marco McSweeney
- Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology, University of Maryland - College Park
| | - Lydia Yoder
- Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology, University of Maryland - College Park
| | - William Fifer
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
| | | | - Lauren Shuffrey
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
| | - Virginia Rauh
- Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Columbia University
| | | | - Nathan A. Fox
- Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology, University of Maryland - College Park
| | | |
Collapse
|
|
9
|
Xie YH, Zhang YM, Fan FF, Song XY, Liu L. Functional role of frontal electroencephalogram alpha asymmetry in the resting state in patients with depression: A review. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:1903-1917. [PMID: 36998965 PMCID: PMC10044961 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i9.1903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is a psychological disorder that affects the general public worldwide. It is particularly important to make an objective and accurate diagnosis of depression, and the measurement methods of brain activity have gradually received increasing attention. Resting electroencephalogram (EEG) alpha asymmetry in patients with depression shows changes in activation of the alpha frequency band of the left and right frontal cortices. In this paper, we review the findings of the relationship between frontal EEG alpha asymmetry in the resting state and depression. Based on worldwide studies, we found the following: (1) Compared with individuals without depression, those with depression showed greater right frontal EEG alpha asymmetry in the resting state. However, the pattern of frontal EEG alpha asymmetry in the resting state in depressive individuals seemed to disappear with age; (2) Compared with individuals without maternal depression, those with maternal depression showed greater right frontal EEG alpha asymmetry in the resting state, which indicated that genetic or experience-based influences have an impact on frontal EEG alpha asymmetry at rest; and (3) Frontal EEG alpha asymmetry in the resting state was stable, and little or no change occurred after antidepressant treatment. Finally, we concluded that the contrasting results may be due to differences in methodology, clinical characteristics, and participant characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hong Xie
- Psychology College of Teacher Education, Center of Group Behavior and Social Psychological Service, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ye-Min Zhang
- Psychology College of Teacher Education, Center of Group Behavior and Social Psychological Service, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Fan-Fan Fan
- Psychology College of Teacher Education, Center of Group Behavior and Social Psychological Service, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xi-Yan Song
- Psychology College of Teacher Education, Center of Group Behavior and Social Psychological Service, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Psychology College of Teacher Education, Center of Group Behavior and Social Psychological Service, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
|
10
|
Edmunds SR, Fogler J, Braverman Y, Gilbert R, Faja S. Resting frontal alpha asymmetry as a predictor of executive and affective functioning in children with neurodevelopmental differences. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1065598. [PMID: 36710763 PMCID: PMC9880425 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1065598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The relative difference of resting EEG frontal alpha activation between left and right hemispheres (FAA; i.e., asymmetry) correlates with global approach and avoidance tendencies. FAA may relate to problems with executive and affective functioning in children with neurodevelopmental differences, including autism and ADHD. We (1) characterize relative left vs. right FAA in autistic, ADHD, and neurotypical children (NT) and (2) investigate whether FAA predicts "hot" executive function or emotion dysregulation. Participants were 97 7- to 11-year-old autistic, ADHD, and NT Children. Children with ADHD displayed greater left (relative to right) FAA compared to autistic and neurotypical children. Children with ADHD displayed greater challenges with "hot" EF on a gambling task than autistic children, whereas children with co-occurring autism and ADHD had greater parent-reported emotion dysregulation than NT and autism-only groups. Greater left FAA predicted worse hot EF for all children but was not significantly related to emotion dysregulation. Regardless of clinical diagnosis, relatively greater left FAA relates to hot EF. While hot EF deficits may be specific to ADHD rather than autism, both together confer additive risk for emotion dysregulation. Future research should explore the functional relation between FAA, reward processing, and affect for children with different EF-related neurodevelopmental differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R. Edmunds
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jason Fogler
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Departments of Pediatrics & Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental & Related Disabilities/Institute for Community Inclusion, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yael Braverman
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rachel Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Susan Faja
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Departments of Pediatrics & Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
|
11
|
Shai D, Laor Black A, Spencer R, Sleed M, Baradon T, Nolte T, Fonagy P. Trust me! Parental embodied mentalizing predicts infant cognitive and language development in longitudinal follow-up. Front Psychol 2022; 13:867134. [PMID: 35992465 PMCID: PMC9386006 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.867134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Children's cognitive and language development is a central aspect of human development and has wide and long-standing impact. The parent-infant relationship is the chief arena for the infant to learn about the world. Studies reveal associations between quality of parental care and children's cognitive and language development when the former is measured as maternal sensitivity. Nonetheless, the extent to which parental mentalizing - a parent's understanding of the thoughts, feelings, and attitudes of a child, and presumed to underlie sensitivity - contributes to children's cognitive development and functioning, has yet to be thoroughly investigated. According to the epistemic trust theory, high mentalizing parents often use ostensive cues, which signal to the infant that they are perceived and treated as unique subjective beings. By doing so, parents foster epistemic trust in their infants, allowing the infant to use the parents a reliable source of knowledge to learn from. Until recently, parental mentalizing has been limited to verbal approaches and measurement. This is a substantial limitation of the construct as we know that understanding of intentionality is both non-verbal and verbal. In this investigation we employed both verbal and non-verbal, body-based, approaches to parental mentalizing, to examine whether parental mentalizing in a clinical sample predicts children's cognitive and language development 12 months later. Findings from a longitudinal intervention study of 39 mothers and their infants revealed that parental embodied mentalizing in infancy significantly predicted language development 12 months later and marginally predicted child cognitive development. Importantly, PEM explained unique variance in the child's cognitive and linguistic capacities over and above maternal emotional availability, child interactive behavior, parental reflective functioning, depression, ethnicity, education, marital status, and number of other children. The theoretical, empirical, and clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dana Shai
- SEED Center, School of Behavioral Sciences, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Adi Laor Black
- SEED Center, School of Behavioral Sciences, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Rose Spencer
- CNWL NHS Perinatal Mental Health Services, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle Sleed
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tessa Baradon
- School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tobias Nolte
- Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Fonagy
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
|
12
|
Ilyka D, Johnson MH, Lloyd-Fox S. Infant social interactions and brain development: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 130:448-469. [PMID: 34506843 PMCID: PMC8522805 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Associations between caregiver-infant behaviours during social interactions and brain development outcomes were investigated. Caregivers' and infants' behaviours in interactions related to children’s structural, functional and connectivity measures. Concurrent associations between behavioural and brain measures were apparent as early as three months postnatally. Long-term associations between behaviours in early interactions and brain development outcomes were observed decades later. Individual differences in early interactions and associated brain development is an important avenue for further research. From birth, interactions with others are an integral part of a person’s daily life. In infancy, social exchanges are thought to be critical for optimal brain development. This systematic review explores this association by drawing together infant studies that relate adult-infant behaviours – coded from their social interactions - to children’s brain measures collected during a neuroimaging session in infancy, childhood, adolescence or adulthood. In total, we identified 55 studies that explored associations between infants’ social interactions and neural measures. These studies show that several aspects of caregiver-infant behaviours are associated with, or predict, a variety of neural responses in infants, children and adolescents. The presence of both concurrent and long-term associations - some of which are first observed just a few months postnatally and extend into adulthood - open an important research avenue and motivate further longitudinal studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dianna Ilyka
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - Mark H Johnson
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Lloyd-Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
|
13
|
Broomell AP, Savla J, Calkins SD, Bell MA. Infant electroencephalogram coherence and early childhood inhibitory control: Foundations for social cognition in late childhood. Dev Psychol 2021; 57:1439-1451. [PMID: 34929089 PMCID: PMC8688835 DOI: 10.1037/dev0001241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Social cognition is a set of complex processes that mediate much of human behavior. The development of these skills is related to and interdependent on other cognitive processes, particularly inhibitory control. Brain regions associated with inhibitory control and social cognition overlap functionally and structurally, especially with respect to frontal brain areas. We proposed that the neural foundations of inhibitory control and social cognition are measurable in infancy. We used structural equation modeling and showed that 10-month frontotemporal neuroconnectivity measured using electroencephalogram coherence predicts social cognition at 9 years of age through age-4 inhibitory control. These findings provide insight into the neurodevelopmental trajectory of cognition and suggest that connectivity from frontal regions to other parts of the brain is a foundation for the development of these skills. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jyoti Savla
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Virginia Tech
| | - Susan D. Calkins
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
| | | |
Collapse
|
|
14
|
Smith ES, Elliott D, Killick R, Crawford TJ, Kidby S, Reid VM. Infants Oscillatory Frequencies change during Free-Play. Infant Behav Dev 2021; 64:101612. [PMID: 34332261 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2021.101612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Social interactions are known to be an essential component of infant development. For this reason, exploring functional neural activity while infants are engaged in social interactions will enable a better understanding of the infant social brain. This in turn, will enable the beginning of disentangling the neural basis of social and non-social interactions as well as the influence that maternal engagement has on infant brain function. Maternal sensitivity serves as a model for socio-emotional development during infancy, which poses the question: do interactions between parents and their offspring present altered electrophysiological responses in comparison to the general population if said parents are at risk of mental health disorders? The current research aimed to observe the oscillatory activity of 6-month-old infants during spontaneous free-play interactions with their mother. A 5-minute unconstrained free-play session was recorded between infant-mother dyads with EEG recordings taken from the 6-month-old infants (n = 64). During the recording, social and non-social behaviours were coded and EEG assessed with these epochs. Results showed an increase in oscillatory activity both when an infant played independently or interacted with their mother and oscillatory power was greatest in the alpha and theta bands. In the present 6-month-old cohort, no hemispheric power differences were observed as oscillatory power in the corresponding neural regions (i.e. left and right temporal regions) appeared to mirror each other. Instead, temporal estimates were larger and different from all other regions, whilst the frontal and parietal regions bihemispherically displayed similar estimates, which were larger than those observed centrally, but smaller than those displayed in the temporal locations. The interactions observed between the behavioural events and frequency bands demonstrated a significant reduction in power comparative to the power observed in the gamma band during the baseline event. The present research sought to explore the obstacle of artificial play paradigms for neuroscience research, whereby researchers question how much these paradigms relate to reality. The present manuscript will discuss the strengths and limitations of taking an unconstrained free-play approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor S Smith
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, UK; Department of Experimental Psychology, Downing Site, Downing Street, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - David Elliott
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, UK; School of Mathematics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Rebecca Killick
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, UK
| | | | - Sayaka Kidby
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, UK
| | - Vincent M Reid
- Department of Psychology, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, UK; School of Psychology, The University of Waikato, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
|
15
|
Jacques DT, Sturge-Apple ML, Davies PT, Cicchetti D. Parsing alcohol-dependent mothers' insensitivity to child distress: Longitudinal links with children's affective and anxiety problems. Dev Psychol 2021; 57:900-912. [PMID: 34424008 PMCID: PMC8386000 DOI: 10.1037/dev0001190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Prior work suggests that substance-dependent mothers insensitively respond to their child's emotional needs, which can increase children's risk for psychopathology. However, the mechanisms and processes underlying these associations remain unclarified. Mothers' insensitivity to children's distress is an especially unique predictor of child maladjustment, yet no study has examined whether or how different types of insensitivity to child distress uniquely affect the development of internalizing problems in children of alcohol-dependent mothers. To bridge these gaps, this study examined longitudinal mediational pathways between maternal alcohol dependence symptoms, 2 types of maternal insensitivity to child distress (disengagement and intrusiveness), and 2 types of child internalizing symptoms (affective and anxiety problems) in a majority Black and Latinx sample of young children (Mage = 2.14 years) and their mothers. Results revealed that maternal disengagement mediated associations between maternal alcohol dependence symptoms and child internalizing problems such that alcohol dependence predicted increased disengagement to children's distress, which subsequently predicted increases in children's affective problems. Maternal alcohol dependence symptoms were not associated with intrusiveness to child distress; however, increased intrusiveness predicted later increases in child anxiety problems. Findings support a differentiated approach to studying maternal insensitivity to child distress, specifically indicating that mothers with alcohol dependence symptoms may be more or less likely to display certain types of insensitivity to child distress which may differentially influence children's risk for internalizing problems. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Collapse
|
|
16
|
Hardin JS, Jones NA, Mize KD, Platt M. Affectionate Touch in the Context of Breastfeeding and Maternal Depression Influences Infant Neurodevelopmental and Temperamental Substrates. Neuropsychobiology 2021; 80:158-175. [PMID: 33461198 PMCID: PMC8117377 DOI: 10.1159/000511604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While numerous studies have demonstrated maternal depression's influence on infant brain development, few studies have examined the changes that occur as a consequence of co-occurring experiential factors that affect quality of mother and infant affectionate touch as well as infant temperament and neurophysiological systems. The aim of the study was to examine the interactive effects of maternal depression and breastfeeding on mother and infant affectionate touch and infant temperament and cortical maturation patterns across early development. METHODS 113 mothers and their infants participated when infants were 1 and 3 months of age. Questionnaires to assess maternal depressive symptoms, feeding, and temperament were completed. Tonic EEG patterns (asymmetry and left and right activity) were collected and the dyads were video-recorded during feeding to assess mother and infant affectionate touch patterns. RESULTS Data analysis showed that EEG activity and mother-infant affectionate touch differed as a function of mood and feeding method. Notably, only infants of depressed mothers that bottle-fed showed right frontal EEG asymmetry and attenuated change in the left frontal region across 3 months. Breastfeeding positively impacted affectionate touch behaviors and was associated with increased left and decreased right frontal EEG activation even for depressed groups. Furthermore, a model incorporating physiology, maternal depression, touch, temperament, and feeding indicated significant prediction for infant affectionate touch (with breastfeeding and affectively positive temperament demonstrating the strongest prediction). Con-clusion: The findings suggest that breastfeeding and the infant's positive temperament influence mother-infant affectionate touch patterns and result in neuroprotective outcomes for infants, even those exposed to maternal depression within early development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian S. Hardin
- *Jillian Hardin, Department of Psychology, Florida Atlantic University, 5353 Parkside Drive, Jupiter, FL 33458 (USA),
| | - Nancy Aaron Jones
- Charles E. Schmidt College Science Department of Psychology, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Krystal D. Mize
- Charles E. Schmidt College Science Department of Psychology, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Melannie Platt
- Charles E. Schmidt College Science Department of Psychology, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
17
|
Transacting brains: testing an actor-partner model of frontal EEG activity in mother-infant dyads. Dev Psychopathol 2020; 34:969-980. [PMID: 33107421 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579420001558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Studies have long observed the bidirectional nature of mother-infant relationships. While behavioral studies have shown that mothers high in social avoidance tendencies can influence the development of these traits in their offspring, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying this phenomenon, and the role that the infants play, are not well understood. Here we acquired frontal electroencephalogram asymmetry (FA) data simultaneously in 40 mother-infant dyads (Mage mother = 31.6 years; Mage infant = 9 months). Using an actor-partner interdependence model, we examined whether mother (or infant) resting-state FA predicted infant (or mother) FA during two subsequent emotion-eliciting conditions (happy and fear). Maternal social approach versus avoidance traits were assessed as moderators to examine the impact of maternal characteristics on these mother-infant FA relations. In dyads led by mothers with high social avoidance/low social approach characteristics, maternal resting-state FA predicted infant FA during both emotion-eliciting conditions. We did not observe any effects of infant FA on mothers. Therefore, we speculate that individual differences in FA patterns might be a putative brain mechanism through which socially avoidant mothers transfer affective/behavioral information to their infants.
Collapse
|
|
18
|
Goodman SH, Liu R, Lusby CM, Park JS, Bell MA, Newport DJ, Stowe ZN. Consistency of EEG asymmetry patterns in infants of depressed mothers. Dev Psychobiol 2020; 63:768-781. [PMID: 33067826 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) asymmetry across multiple contexts as an index of a general affective response predisposition in 12-month-old infants whose mothers were at elevated risk for perinatal depression due to their mother's history of depression. We further examined mothers' prenatal, postnatal, and concurrent depressive symptom levels in relation to infants' frontal EEG asymmetry consistency. Mothers (n = 132) with a history of depression prior to pregnancy completed depressive symptom scales repeatedly during pregnancy and the first year postpartum. Their 12-month-old infants' frontal EEG asymmetry was recorded across five contexts (baseline/bubbles, peek-a-boo, play, feeding, and distract). Frontal EEG asymmetries showed small to moderate correlations across contexts. Mothers' prenatal depression symptom levels (not postnatal or concurrent) were associated with infants having consistent right, rather than left, frontal EEG asymmetry, even after controlling for infants' observed affect. These findings demonstrate the consistency of EEG asymmetry scores across contexts in 12-month-old infants at risk for the development of psychopathology, providing support for relative right frontal EEG asymmetry as a trait marker of vulnerability to depression. Findings also suggest the importance of mothers' prenatal, rather than postnatal or concurrent depression, in predicting infants' consistent patterns of relative right frontal EEG asymmetry across contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ran Liu
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Cara M Lusby
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ji Soo Park
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Martha Ann Bell
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | | | - Zachary N Stowe
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
19
|
Gartstein MA, Warwick H, Campagna AX. Electroencephalogram frontal asymmetry changes during emotion‐eliciting tasks and parent–child interaction dynamics. SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/sode.12484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Haven Warwick
- Department of Psychology Washington State University Pullman WA USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
|
20
|
Positive and Negative Emotionality at Age 3 Predicts Change in Frontal EEG Asymmetry across Early Childhood. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2020; 47:209-219. [PMID: 29687430 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-018-0433-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Depression is characterized by low positive emotionality (PE) and high negative emotionality (NE), as well as asymmetries in resting electroencephalography (EEG) alpha power. Moreover, frontal asymmetry has itself been linked to PE, NE, and related constructs. However, little is known about associations of temperamental PE and NE with resting EEG asymmetries in young children and whether this association changes as a function of development. In a longitudinal study of 254 three-year old children, we assessed PE and NE at age 3 using a standard laboratory observation procedure. Frontal EEG asymmetries were assessed at age 3 and three years later at age 6. We observed a significant three-way interaction of preschool PE and NE and age at assessment for asymmetry at F3-F4 electrode sites, such that children with both low PE and high NE developed a pattern of increasingly lower relative left-frontal cortical activity over time. In addition, F7-F8 asymmetry was predicted by a PE by time interaction, such that the frontal asymmetry in children with high PE virtually disappeared by age 6. Overall, these findings suggest that early temperament is associated with developmental changes in frontal asymmetry, and that the combination of low PE and high NE predicts the development of the pattern of frontal symmetry that is associated with depression.
Collapse
|
|
21
|
Almanza-Sepulveda ML, Fleming AS, Jonas W. Mothering revisited: A role for cortisol? Horm Behav 2020; 121:104679. [PMID: 31927022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This selective review first describes the involvement of the maternal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and the relation between peripartum HPA axis function and maternal behavior, stress reactivity and emotional dysregulation in human mothers. To provide experimental background to this correlational work, where helpful, animal studies are also described. It then explores the association between HPA axis function in mothers and their infants, under ongoing non-stressful conditions and during stressful challenges, the moderating role of mothers' sensitivity and behavior in the mother-child co-regulation and the effects of more traumatic risk factors on these relations. The overarching theme being explored is that the HPA axis - albeit a system designed to function during periods of high stress and challenge - also functions to promote adaptation to more normative processes, shown in the new mother who experiences both high cortisol and enhanced attraction and attention to and recognition of, their infants and their cues. Hence the same HPA system shows positive relations with behavior at some time points and inverse ones at others. However, the literature is not uniform and results vary widely depending on the number, timing, place, and type of samplings and assessments, and, of course, the population being studied and, in the present context, the state, the stage, and the stress levels of mother and infant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayra L Almanza-Sepulveda
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Alison S Fleming
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.
| | - Wibke Jonas
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Widerströmska Huset, Tomtebodavägen 18a, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
|
22
|
Intergenerational Transmission of Frontal Alpha Asymmetry Among Mother-Infant Dyads. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 5:420-428. [PMID: 32107166 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) is a well-established neurobiological indicator of depression risk. Reduced FAA relates to current and remitted depression in adults and is seen in offspring of mothers with depression as young as 3 months of age, suggesting a potentially transmittable mechanism of depression risk. It is unclear, however, whether direct familial associations exist for FAA. To address this gap, we evaluated the intergenerational transmission of FAA in a nonclinical cohort of mother-infant dyads. METHODS Mothers and their 12-month-old infants (n = 34 dyads) completed parallel resting-state tasks while electroencephalography was recorded. We measured FAA across a range of putative frequency bands and calculated its reliability in mothers and infants. Finally, we evaluated the heritability of FAA based on the parent-offspring correlation. RESULTS Mother and infant FAA convergence was strongest in the high alpha range for mothers (11-13 Hz) and broad alpha range for infants (6-9 Hz). Mother high FAA exhibited excellent split-half reliability (rSB = .99) and internal consistency after 80 seconds (α = .90); infant FAA exhibited good split-half reliability (rSB = .81) and fair internal consistency after 70 seconds (α = .74). Mother-infant FAA were moderately correlated (r = .41), which indicates narrow-sense heritability of up to 82%. CONCLUSIONS FAA can be assessed reliably and relatively quickly in both adults and infants. There is a robust association of FAA between mothers and their infants, supporting intergenerational transmission. This finding is consistent with the possibility that reduced FAA may directly confer depression risk at the individual-family level.
Collapse
|
|
23
|
Binda V, Figueroa-Leigh F, Olhaberry M. Antenatal and postnatal depressive symptoms: Association with quality of mother-infant interaction. Infant Behav Dev 2019; 57:101386. [PMID: 31706199 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2019.101386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Antenatal and postnatal depression are independently associated with an increased risk of adverse infant development. A key linking mechanism is the quality of mother-infant interaction. OBJECTIVES This study assesses the association between postnatal depressive symptoms (PDS) and their severity, with the quality of mother-infant interaction and compare the quality of mother-infant interaction and severity of the symptoms depending on the presence or absence of antenatal depressive symptoms (ADS). METHODS observational study in 177 psychosocial risk mother-infant dyads from Chile (infant aged 2-12 months). RESULTS Mothers with PDS had lower maternal sensitivity and a more intrusive/controlling style than mothers without PDS, although the severity of the symptoms was not associated with lower maternal sensitivity. Maternal sensitivity did not differ in the postnatal depressed mothers depending on the presence of ADS, although the mothers differed in interaction style and the severity of symptoms. Mothers with ADS and PDS presented with a predominant intrusive/controlling interaction style and more severe depressive symptoms, whereas those with only PDS presented with a predominant nonresponsive/passive interaction style and reduced severity of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The results corroborate the need to offer treatment and dyadic interventions to antenatal and postnatal depressive mothers and postulate that the presence of antenatal depressive symptoms may influence the subsequent mother-infant interaction style and greater severity of symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Binda
- Department of Family Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | | | - Marcia Olhaberry
- Department of Psychology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
|
24
|
Gartstein MA. Frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) asymmetry reactivity: Exploring changes from baseline to still face procedure response. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL DEVELOPMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/0165025419850899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Electroencephalogram (EEG) asymmetry has been widely studied across the lifespan, with multiple studies conducted in infancy. However, few have investigated frontal EEG asymmetry in the context of emotional-eliciting tasks, controlling for baseline to focus on an experimental episode response. The present study was designed to address this gap in research, predicting frontal EEG asymmetry response in the context of the Still Face procedure (SFP), examining mother–infant interaction quality and infant temperament attributes as potential contributors. Moderation by infant temperament was also considered. Results indicated that intensity and tone of parent–child interactions as well as Surgency/Positive Affectivity (and component scales of Approach and Activity Level) predicted frontal EEG asymmetry during SFP, controlling for baseline. Importantly, moderation was noted for Surgency/Positive Affectivity and its Approach component, reflected in significant interaction terms and follow-up simple slope tests. That is, the effect of intensity in mother–infant interactions was qualified by child overall surgency, and approach more specifically – infants demonstrating higher levels of Surgency/Positive Affectivity and Approach in particular were protected from the right frontal EEG response to SFP noted in the context of intense concurrent exchanges with mothers.
Collapse
|
|
25
|
Abstract
Pregnancy is a complex and vulnerable period that presents a number of challenges to women, including the development of postpartum psychiatric disorders (PPDs). These disorders can include postpartum depression and anxiety, which are relatively common, and the rare but more severe postpartum psychosis. In addition, other PPDs can include obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and eating disorders. The aetiology of PPDs is a complex interaction of psychological, social and biological factors, in addition to genetic and environmental factors. The goals of treating postpartum mental illness are reducing maternal symptoms and supporting maternal-child and family functioning. Women and their families should receive psychoeducation about the illness, including evidence-based discussions about the risks and benefits of each treatment option. Developing effective strategies in global settings that allow the delivery of targeted therapies to women with different clinical phenotypes and severities of PPDs is essential.
Collapse
|
|
26
|
Rayson H, Bonaiuto JJ, Ferrari PF, Murray L. Early maternal mirroring predicts infant motor system activation during facial expression observation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11738. [PMID: 28916786 PMCID: PMC5601467 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12097-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Processing facial expressions is an essential component of social interaction, especially for preverbal infants. In human adults and monkeys, this process involves the motor system, with a neural matching mechanism believed to couple self- and other-generated facial gestures. Here, we used electroencephalography to demonstrate recruitment of the human motor system during observation and execution of facial expressions in nine-month-old infants, implicating this system in facial expression processing from a very young age. Notably, examination of early video-recorded mother-infant interactions supported the common, but as yet untested, hypothesis that maternal mirroring of infant facial gestures is central to the development of a neural matching mechanism for these gestures. Specifically, the extent to which mothers mirrored infant facial expressions at two months postpartum predicted infant motor system activity during observation of the same expressions at nine months. This suggests that maternal mirroring strengthens mappings between visual and motor representations of facial gestures, which increases infant neural sensitivity to particularly relevant cues in the early social environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly Rayson
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom.
| | - James John Bonaiuto
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pier Francesco Ferrari
- Institut des Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, CNRS/Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - Lynne Murray
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
|
27
|
Bruder GE, Stewart JW, McGrath PJ. Right brain, left brain in depressive disorders: Clinical and theoretical implications of behavioral, electrophysiological and neuroimaging findings. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 78:178-191. [PMID: 28445740 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Revised: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The right and left side of the brain are asymmetric in anatomy and function. We review electrophysiological (EEG and event-related potential), behavioral (dichotic and visual perceptual asymmetry), and neuroimaging (PET, MRI, NIRS) evidence of right-left asymmetry in depressive disorders. Recent electrophysiological and fMRI studies of emotional processing have provided new evidence of altered laterality in depressive disorders. EEG alpha asymmetry and neuroimaging findings at rest and during cognitive or emotional tasks are consistent with reduced left prefrontal activity in depressed patients, which may impair downregulation of amygdala response to negative emotional information. Dichotic listening and visual hemifield findings for non-verbal or emotional processing have revealed abnormal perceptual asymmetry in depressive disorders, and electrophysiological findings have shown reduced right-lateralized responsivity to emotional stimuli in occipitotemporal or parietotemporal cortex. We discuss models of neural networks underlying these alterations. Of clinical relevance, individual differences among depressed patients on measures of right-left brain function are related to diagnostic subtype of depression, comorbidity with anxiety disorders, and clinical response to antidepressants or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerard E Bruder
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, USA; Cognitive Neuroscience Division, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA.
| | - Jonathan W Stewart
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, USA; Depression Evaluation Service, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA.
| | - Patrick J McGrath
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, USA; Depression Evaluation Service, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
|
28
|
Wen DJ, Soe NN, Sim LW, Sanmugam S, Kwek K, Chong YS, Gluckman PD, Meaney MJ, Rifkin-Graboi A, Qiu A. Infant frontal EEG asymmetry in relation with postnatal maternal depression and parenting behavior. Transl Psychiatry 2017; 7:e1057. [PMID: 28291259 PMCID: PMC5416671 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2017.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Right frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) asymmetry associates with negative affect and depressed mood, which, among children, are predicted by maternal depression and poor parenting. This study examined associations of maternal depression and maternal sensitivity with infant frontal EEG asymmetry based on 111 mother-6-month-infant dyads. There were no significant effects of postnatal maternal depression or maternal sensitivity, or their interaction, on infant EEG frontal asymmetry. However, in a subsample for which the infant spent at least 50% of his/her day time hours with his/her mother, both lower maternal sensitivity and higher maternal depression predicted greater relative right frontal EEG asymmetry. Our study further showed that greater relative right frontal EEG asymmetry of 6-month-old infants predicted their greater negative emotionality at 12 months of age. Our study suggested that among infants with sufficient postnatal maternal exposure, both maternal sensitivity and mental health are important influences on early brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D J Wen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Clinical Imaging Research Center, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - N N Soe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Clinical Imaging Research Center, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - L W Sim
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
| | - S Sanmugam
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
| | - K Kwek
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Y-S Chong
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - P D Gluckman
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
| | - M J Meaney
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Sackler Program for Epigenetics & Psychobiology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - A Rifkin-Graboi
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
| | - A Qiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Clinical Imaging Research Center, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
|
29
|
Ionio C, Colombo C, Brazzoduro V, Mascheroni E, Confalonieri E, Castoldi F, Lista G. Mothers and Fathers in NICU: The Impact of Preterm Birth on Parental Distress. EUROPES JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2016; 12:604-621. [PMID: 27872669 PMCID: PMC5114875 DOI: 10.5964/ejop.v12i4.1093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth is a stressful event for families. In particular, the unexpectedly early delivery may cause negative feelings in mothers and fathers. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between preterm birth, parental stress and negative feelings, and the environmental setting of NICU. 21 mothers (age = 36.00 ± 6.85) and 19 fathers (age = 34.92 ± 4.58) of preterm infants (GA = 30.96 ± 2.97) and 20 mothers (age = 40.08 ± 4.76) and 20 fathers (age = 40.32 ± 6.77) of full-term infants (GA = 39.19 ± 1.42) were involved. All parents filled out the Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the Impact of Event Scale Revised, Profile of Mood States, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and the Post-Partum Bonding Questionnaire. Our data showed differences in emotional reactions between preterm and full-term parents. Results also revealed significant differences between mothers and fathers’ responses to preterm birth in terms of stress, negative feelings, and perceptions of social support. A correlation between negative conditions at birth (e.g., birth weight and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit stay) and higher scores in some scales of Impact of Event Scale Revised, Profile of Mood States and Post-Partum Bonding Questionnaire were found. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit may be a stressful place both for mothers and fathers. It might be useful to plan, as soon as possible, interventions to help parents through the experience of the premature birth of their child and to begin an immediately adaptive mode of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Ionio
- Centro di Ricerca sulle Dinamiche evolutive ed educative (CRIdee), Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Colombo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), V. Buzzi-Ospedale dei Bambini, ICP, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Brazzoduro
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), V. Buzzi-Ospedale dei Bambini, ICP, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Mascheroni
- Centro di Ricerca sulle Dinamiche evolutive ed educative (CRIdee), Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Confalonieri
- Centro di Ricerca sulle Dinamiche evolutive ed educative (CRIdee), Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Castoldi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), V. Buzzi-Ospedale dei Bambini, ICP, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lista
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), V. Buzzi-Ospedale dei Bambini, ICP, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
|
30
|
Bernier A, Calkins SD, Bell MA. Longitudinal Associations Between the Quality of Mother-Infant Interactions and Brain Development Across Infancy. Child Dev 2016; 87:1159-74. [PMID: 27040719 PMCID: PMC4939105 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate if normative variations in parenting relate to brain development among typically developing children. A sample of 352 mother-infant dyads came to the laboratory when infants were 5, 10, and 24 months of age (final N = 215). At each visit, child resting electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded. Mother-infant interactions were videotaped at the 5-month visit. The results indicated that higher quality maternal behavior during mother-infant interactions predicted higher frontal resting EEG power at 10 and 24 months, as well as increases in power between 5 and 10 months, and between 10 and 24 months. These findings provide rare support for the hypothesis that normative variation in parenting quality may contribute to brain development among typically developing infants.
Collapse
|
|
31
|
de Camps Meschino D, Philipp D, Israel A, Vigod S. Maternal-infant mental health: postpartum group intervention. Arch Womens Ment Health 2016; 19:243-51. [PMID: 26239582 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-015-0551-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Dyadic interactions associated with maternal depression and anxiety may perpetuate maternal mental illness and impact infant attachment. Individual and maternal-dyadic therapies are effective but resource intensive. We assessed feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a newly developed maternal-infant dyadic group therapy intervention. This was an open-label pilot study targeting mothers with mood or anxiety disorders, and their infants aged 6 to 12 months. We conducted three 12-week groups combining evidence-based maternal and mother-infant dyadic strategies to enhance mood, insight, parenting, and mentalizing capacity. We measured recruitment and retention rates, reasons for nonparticipation, and missed sessions. Acceptability of the intervention was assessed via questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Efficacy outcomes were the Parenting Stress Index (PSI), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EDPS), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), measured pretreatment and posttreatment. The feasibility and acceptability were excellent. There was a significant reduction in mean depressive symptom scores (t 3.31; p 0.008 sig) and a trend toward decreasing anxiety scores (t 1.96; p 0.08). The total PSI score decreased, approaching statistical significance (t 2.23; p 0.057). Enhanced insight, parenting capacity, affect regulation, and positive interaction with baby were supported with self-report surveys and interviews. This resource-efficient novel mother-baby dyadic group intervention shows excellent feasibility, acceptability, and has good preliminary efficacy results. It has the potential to improve depression, anxiety, affect regulation, parenting, and maternal mentalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diane de Camps Meschino
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street 8th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada. .,Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville Street 7th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2, Canada.
| | - Diane Philipp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street 8th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.,The Hincks Delcrest Centre, 440 Jarvis Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 2H4, Canada
| | - Aliza Israel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street 8th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.,Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville Street 7th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2, Canada
| | - Simone Vigod
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street 8th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.,Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville Street 7th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
|
32
|
Hynan MT, Steinberg Z, Baker L, Cicco R, Geller PA, Lassen S, Milford C, Mounts KO, Patterson C, Saxton S, Segre L, Stuebe A. Recommendations for mental health professionals in the NICU. J Perinatol 2015; 35 Suppl 1:S14-8. [PMID: 26597800 PMCID: PMC4660044 DOI: 10.1038/jp.2015.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This article describes recommended activities of social workers, psychologists and psychiatric staff within the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). NICU mental health professionals (NMHPs) should interact with all NICU parents in providing emotional support, screening, education, psychotherapy and teleservices for families. NMHPs should also offer educational and emotional support for the NICU health-care staff. NMHPs should function at all levels of layered care delivered to NICU parents. Methods of screening for emotional distress are described, as well as evidence for the benefits of peer-to-peer support and psychotherapy delivered in the NICU. In the ideal NICU, care for the emotional and educational needs of NICU parents are outcomes equal in importance to the health and development of their babies. Whenever possible, NMHPs should be involved with parents from the antepartum period through after discharge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M T Hynan
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA,9836 Leeward Avenue, Key Largo, FL 33037, USA. E-mail:
| | - Z Steinberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, New York Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - L Baker
- Department of Social Work, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - R Cicco
- Department of Neonatology, West Penn Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - P A Geller
- Department of Psychology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - S Lassen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - C Milford
- Cheryl Milford Consulting, Huntington Beach, CA, USA
| | - K O Mounts
- Wisconsin Association for Perinatal Care/Perinatal Foundation, Madison, WI, USA
| | - C Patterson
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - S Saxton
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - L Segre
- College of Nursing, and Department of Psychological and Brain Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - A Stuebe
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
33
|
Jesulola E, Sharpley CF, Bitsika V, Agnew LL, Wilson P. Frontal alpha asymmetry as a pathway to behavioural withdrawal in depression: Research findings and issues. Behav Brain Res 2015; 292:56-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.05.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
|
34
|
Lomanowska AM, Boivin M, Hertzman C, Fleming AS. Parenting begets parenting: A neurobiological perspective on early adversity and the transmission of parenting styles across generations. Neuroscience 2015; 342:120-139. [PMID: 26386294 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The developing brains of young children are highly sensitive to input from their social environment. Nurturing social experience during this time promotes the acquisition of social and cognitive skills and emotional competencies. However, many young children are confronted with obstacles to healthy development, including poverty, inappropriate care, and violence, and their enhanced sensitivity to the social environment means that they are highly susceptible to these adverse childhood experiences. One source of social adversity in early life can stem from parenting that is harsh, inconsistent, non-sensitive or hostile. Parenting is considered to be the cornerstone of early socio-emotional development and an adverse parenting style is associated with adjustment problems and a higher risk of developing mood and behavioral disorders. Importantly, there is a growing literature showing that an important predictor of parenting behavior is how parents, especially mothers, were parented themselves. In this review, we examine how adversity in early-life affects mothering behavior in later-life and how these effects may be perpetuated inter-generationally. Relying on studies in humans and animal models, we consider evidence for the intergenerational transmission of mothering styles. We then describe the psychological underpinnings of mothering, including responsiveness to young, executive function and affect, as well as the physiological mediators of mothering behavior, including hormones, brain regions and neurotransmitters, and we consider how development in these relevant domains may be affected by adversity experienced in early life. Finally, we explore how genes and early experience interact to predict mothering behavior, including the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms. Understanding how adverse parenting begets adverse parenting in the next generation is critical for designing interventions aimed at preventing this intergenerational cycle of early adversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Lomanowska
- School of Psychology, Laval University, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Québec, Quebec City, QC G1J 2G3, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.
| | - M Boivin
- School of Psychology, Laval University, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Institute of Genetic, Neurobiological, and Social Foundations of Child Development, Tomsk State University, Tomsk, Russian Federation
| | - C Hertzman
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z9, Canada
| | - A S Fleming
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada; Fraser Mustard Institute for Human Development, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1V6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
|
35
|
Tambelli R, Cimino S, Cerniglia L, Ballarotto G. Early maternal relational traumatic experiences and psychopathological symptoms: a longitudinal study on mother-infant and father-infant interactions. Sci Rep 2015; 5:13984. [PMID: 26354733 PMCID: PMC4564854 DOI: 10.1038/srep13984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Early maternal relational traumas and psychopathological risk can have an impact on mother-infant interactions. Research has suggested the study of fathers and of their psychological profiles as protection or risk factors. The aim of the paper is to assess the quality of parental interactions during feeding in families with mothers with early traumatic experiences. One hundred thirty-six (N = 136) families were recruited in gynecological clinics: Group A included families with mothers who experienced early sexual/physical abuse; Group B was composed of families with mothers who experienced early emotional abuse or neglect; and Group C comprised healthy controls. The subjects participated in a 10-month longitudinal protocol [at the fourth month of pregnancy (T0), 3 months after child birth (T1), and 6 months after child birth (T2)] that included an observation of mother-infant and father-infant interactions during feeding (Scala di Valutazione dell’Interazione Alimentare [SVIA]) and a self-reporting 90-item Symptom Checklist-Revised (SCL-90-R). Maternal higher rates of depression and early traumatic experiences of neglect and emotional abuse predicted more maladaptive scores on the affective state of the dyad SVIA subscale. Paternal anxiety predicted more severe levels of food refusal in the child during feeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renata Tambelli
- Dipartimento di Psicologia Dinamica e Clinica Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Silvia Cimino
- Dipartimento di Psicologia Dinamica e Clinica Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Luca Cerniglia
- Department of Psychology International Telematic University Uninettuno, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 39 00186 Roma - ITALIA
| | - Giulia Ballarotto
- Psicologia dinamica e clinica Department Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
|
36
|
Neri E, Agostini F, Salvatori P, Biasini A, Monti F. Mother-preterm infant interactions at 3 months of corrected age: influence of maternal depression, anxiety and neonatal birth weight. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1234. [PMID: 26388792 PMCID: PMC4554962 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal depression and anxiety represent risk factors for the quality of early mother-preterm infant interactions, especially in the case of preterm birth. Despite the presence of many studies on this topic, the comorbidity of depressive and anxious symptoms has not been sufficiently investigated, as well as their relationship with the severity of prematurity and the quality of early interactions. The Aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of early mother-infant interactions and the prevalence of maternal depression and anxiety comparing dyads of extremely low birth weight (ELBW) and very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants with full-term ones. Seventy seven preterm infants (32 ELBW; 45 VLBW) and 120 full term (FT) infants and their mothers were recruited. At 3 months of corrected age, 5 min of mother-infant interactions were recorded and later coded through the Global Ratings Scales. Mothers completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and Penn State Worry Questionnaire. Infant levels of development were assessed through the Griffiths Mental Development Scales. A relation emerged among the severity of prematurity, depression, anxiety, and the quality of interactions. When compared with the FT group, the ELBW interactions were characterized by high maternal intrusiveness and low remoteness, while the VLBW dyads showed high levels of maternal sensitivity and infant communication. Depression was related to maternal remoteness and negative affective state, anxiety to low sensitivity, while infant interactive behaviors were impaired only in case of comorbidity. ELBW's mothers showed the highest prevalence of depressive and anxious symptoms; moreover, only in FT dyads, low maternal sensitivity, negative affective state and minor infant communication were associated to the presence of anxious symptoms. The results confirmed the impact of prematurity on mother-infant interactions and on maternal affective state. Early diagnosis can help to plan supportive interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Neri
- Department of Psychology, University of BolognaBologna, Italy
| | | | - Paola Salvatori
- Department of Psychology, University of BolognaBologna, Italy
| | - Augusto Biasini
- Paediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Bufalini Hospital, CesenaItaly
| | - Fiorella Monti
- Department of Psychology, University of BolognaBologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
|
37
|
Salvatori P, Andrei F, Neri E, Chirico I, Trombini E. Pattern of mother-child feeding interactions in preterm and term dyads at 18 and 24 months. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1245. [PMID: 26347699 PMCID: PMC4541078 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Literature on mother-child feeding interactions during the transition to self-feeding in preterm populations is lacking, particularly through observational methods. The present research study aims to look at the longitudinal patterns of mother-toddler feeding interactions, comparing preterm and full term dyads. To this end, a multi-method approach was used to collect data from 27 preterm to 20 full-term toddlers and their mothers. For each dyad, mother-child interactions were observed during the snack time at 18 and 24 months of age and then assessed through the Italian version of the Feeding Scale. Higher scores on the scale indicate a less healthy pattern of interaction. Additionally, at both points in time, mothers completed the BDI-II questionnaire as a screen for maternal depression and the child's developmental stage was assessed using the Griffiths Scales. A series of repeated measures Analysis of Variances were run to detect differences in feeding interactions between the two groups at the time of assessment. Our results show that preterm dyads report overall higher levels of maternal negative affection, interactional conflicts, and less dyadic reciprocity during the meal compared to full-term dyads. Additionally, longitudinal data show that dyadic conflict decreases in both groups, whereas the child's food refusal behaviors increase in the preterm group from 18 to 24 months. No differences were reported for both the BDI-II and the child's development for the two groups. The results reveal that regardless of maternal depression and the child's developmental stage, the two groups show different trajectories in the pattern of feeding interactions during the transition to self -feeding, at 18 and 24 months, with overall less positive interactions in preterm mother-child dyads.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Salvatori
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna Bologna, Italy
| | - Federica Andrei
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna Bologna, Italy
| | - Erica Neri
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Chirico
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Trombini
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
|
38
|
Elsabbagh M, Bruno R, Wan MW, Charman T, Johnson MH, Green J. Infant neural sensitivity to dynamic eye gaze relates to quality of parent-infant interaction at 7-months in infants at risk for autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2015; 45:283-91. [PMID: 25074759 PMCID: PMC4309912 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-014-2192-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Links between brain function measures and quality of parent-child interactions within the early developmental period have been investigated in typical and atypical development. We examined such links in a group of 104 infants with and without a family history for autism in the first year of life. Our findings suggest robust associations between event related potential responses to eye gaze and observed parent-infant interaction measures. In both groups, infants with more positive affect exhibit stronger differentiation to gaze stimuli. This association was observed with the earlier P100 waveform component in the control group but with the later P400 component in infants at-risk. These exploratory findings are critical in paving the way for a better understanding of how infant laboratory measures may relate to overt behavior and how both can be combined in the context of predicting risk or clinical diagnosis in toddlerhood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayada Elsabbagh
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
39
|
Jones Harden B, Denmark N, Holmes A, Duchene M. DETACHED PARENTING AND TODDLER PROBLEM BEHAVIOR IN EARLY HEAD START FAMILIES. Infant Ment Health J 2014; 35:529-43. [DOI: 10.1002/imhj.21476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
|
40
|
Milgrom J, Holt C. Early intervention to protect the mother-infant relationship following postnatal depression: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2014; 15:385. [PMID: 25277158 PMCID: PMC4195961 DOI: 10.1186/1745-6215-15-385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND At least 13% of mothers experience depression in the first postnatal year, with accompanying feelings of despair and a range of debilitating symptoms. Serious sequelae include disturbances in the mother-infant relationship and poor long-term cognitive and behavioural outcomes for the child. Surprisingly, treatment of maternal symptoms of postnatal depression does not improve the mother-infant relationship for a majority of women. Targeted interventions to improve the mother-infant relationship following postnatal depression are scarce and, of those that exist, the majority are not evaluated in randomised controlled trials. This study aims to evaluate a brief targeted mother-infant intervention, to follow cognitive behavioural therapy treatment of postnatal depression, which has the potential to improve developmental outcomes of children of depressed mothers. METHODS/DESIGN The proposed study is a two-arm randomised controlled trial with follow-up to 6 months. One hundred participants will be recruited via referrals from health professionals including maternal and child health nurses and general practitioners, as well as self-referrals from women who have seen promotional materials for the study. Women who meet inclusion criteria (infant aged <12 months, women 18+ years of age) will complete the Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV-TR Axis I Disorders. Those with a clinical diagnosis of current major or minor depressive disorder and who do not meet exclusion criteria (that is, currently receiving treatment for depression, significant difficulty with English, medium to high suicide risk, current self-harm, current substance abuse, current post-traumatic stress disorder, current manic/hypomanic episode or psychotic symptoms) will be randomised to receive either a 4-session mother-infant intervention (HUGS: Happiness Understanding Giving and Sharing) or a 4-session attention placebo playgroup (Playtime) following a 12-session postnatal depression group treatment programme. Primary outcome measures are the Parenting Stress Index (self-report measure) and the Parent-child Early Relational Assessment (observational measure coded by a blinded observer). Measurements are taken at baseline, after the postnatal depression programme, post-HUGS/Playtime, and at 6 months post-HUGS/Playtime. DISCUSSION This research addresses the need for specific treatment for mother-infant interactional difficulties following postnatal depression. There is a need to investigate interventions in randomised trials to prevent detrimental effects on child development and make available evidence-based treatments. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register: ACTRN12612001110875. Date Registered: 17 October 2012.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeannette Milgrom
- />Parent-Infant Research Institute, Austin Health, 300 Waterdale Rd, Heidelberg Heights, VIC 3081 Australia
- />Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Charlene Holt
- />Parent-Infant Research Institute, Austin Health, 300 Waterdale Rd, Heidelberg Heights, VIC 3081 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
|
41
|
Peltola MJ, Bakermans-Kranenburg MJ, Alink LRA, Huffmeijer R, Biro S, van IJzendoorn MH. Resting frontal EEG asymmetry in children: meta-analyses of the effects of psychosocial risk factors and associations with internalizing and externalizing behavior. Dev Psychobiol 2014; 56:1377-89. [PMID: 24863548 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Asymmetry of frontal cortical electroencephalogram (EEG) activity in children is influenced by the social environment and considered a marker of vulnerability to emotional and behavioral problems. To determine the reliability of these associations, we used meta-analysis to test whether variation in resting frontal EEG asymmetry is consistently associated with (a) having experienced psychosocial risk (e.g., parental depression or maltreatment) and (b) internalizing and externalizing behavior outcomes in children ranging from newborns to adolescents. Three meta-analyses including 38 studies (N = 2,523) and 50 pertinent effect sizes were carried out. The studies included in the analyses reported associations between frontal EEG asymmetry and psychosocial risk (k = 20; predominantly studies with maternal depression as the risk factor) as well as internalizing (k = 20) and externalizing (k = 10) behavior outcomes. Psychosocial risk was significantly associated with greater relative right frontal asymmetry, with an effect size of d = .36 (p < .01), the effects being stronger in girls. A non-significant relation was observed between right frontal asymmetry and internalizing symptoms (d = .19, p = .08), whereas no association between left frontal asymmetry and externalizing symptoms was observed (d = .04, p = .79). Greater relative right frontal asymmetry appears to be a fairly consistent marker of the presence of familial stressors in children but the power of frontal asymmetry to directly predict emotional and behavioral problems is modest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikko J Peltola
- School of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Tampere, FIN-33014, Tampere, Finland; Centre for Child and Family Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
42
|
Horowitz JA, Murphy CA, Gregory K, Wojcik J, Pulcini J, Solon L. Nurse home visits improve maternal/infant interaction and decrease severity of postpartum depression. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2014; 42:287-300. [PMID: 23682696 DOI: 10.1111/1552-6909.12038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the efficacy of the relationship-focused behavioral coaching intervention Communicating and Relating Effectively (CARE) in increasing maternal/infant relational effectiveness between depressed mothers and their infants during the first 9 months postpartum. DESIGN Randomized clinical trial (RCT) with three phases. METHODS In this three-phase study, women were screened for postpartum depression (PPD) in Phase I at 6 weeks postpartum. In Phase II, women were randomly assigned to treatment or control conditions and maternal/infant interaction was video recorded at four intervals postpartum: 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months. Phase III involved focus group and individual interviews with study participants. SETTING Phase I mothers were recruited from obstetric units of two major medical centers. Phase II involved the RCT, a series of nurse-led home visits beginning at 6 weeks and ending at 9 months postpartum. Phase III focus groups were conducted at the university and personal interviews were conducted by telephone or in participants' homes. PARTICIPANTS Postpartum mother/infant dyads (134) representative of southeastern New England, United States participated in the RCT. One hundred and twenty-five mother/infant dyads were fully retained in the 9-month protocol. RESULTS Treatment and control groups had significant increases in quality of mother/infant interaction and decreases in depression severity. Qualitative findings indicated presence of the nurse, empathic listening, focused attention and self-reflection during data collection, directions for video-recorded interaction, and assistance with referrals likely contributed to improvements for both groups. CONCLUSIONS Efficacy of the CARE intervention was only partially supported. Nurse attention given to the control group and the data collection process likely confounded results and constituted an unintentional treatment. Results suggest that nurse-led home visits had a positive effect on outcomes for all participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- June Andrews Horowitz
- Boston College, W. F. Connell School of Nursing, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
43
|
Screening parents of high-risk infants for emotional distress: rationale and recommendations. J Perinatol 2013; 33:748-53. [PMID: 23807720 DOI: 10.1038/jp.2013.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Revised: 04/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Having a baby hospitalized in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is a potentially traumatic event for parents. This article summarizes research documenting heightened symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress in these parents and reviews studies of the relationship of parental distress with impaired infant and child development. We describe an array of validated screening devices for depression and post-traumatic stress, along with research on risk factors for elevated scores. In making recommendations for screening both mothers and fathers for emotional distress in the NICU, we (a) present commentary on the pros and cons of screening, (b) propose a timetable for screening and (c) describe both supportive interventions for parents in the NICU and a variety of referral possibilities for parents most at risk.
Collapse
|
|
44
|
Lusby CM, Goodman SH, Bell MA, Newport DJ. Electroencephalogram patterns in infants of depressed mothers. Dev Psychobiol 2013; 56:459-73. [PMID: 23852456 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2012] [Accepted: 02/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Electroencephalogram (EEG) patterns may reflect a vulnerability to depression. In an effort to understand their earliest origin, we examined their stability and consistency and their associations with perinatal depressive symptoms. Depressive symptoms were measured prospectively throughout the perinatal period in 83 women with histories of depression and/or anxiety. Infant's EEG was recorded during baseline, feeding, and play at 3 and 6 months of age. Prenatal and postpartum depressive symptoms interacted significantly to predict 3- and 6-month-olds' EEG asymmetry scores. Asymmetry scores were consistent across contexts, except from baseline to feeding and play at 6 months, and stable across ages, except during feeding. Changes in depressive symptoms across ages were not associated with changes in infant EEG. Findings highlight the importance of considering both prenatal and postpartum depressive symptoms in the prediction of infant EEG, as well as the need to consider context to understand stability of infant EEG patterns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cara M Lusby
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
45
|
Abstract
Medical and technological advances in neonatology have prompted the initiation and expansion of developmentally supportive services for newborns and have incorporated rehabilitation professionals into the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) multidisciplinary team. Availability of therapists specialized in the care of neonates, the roles of rehabilitation professionals, and models of service delivery vary from hospital to hospital based on philosophy, resources, and other considerations. To provide quality care for infants and families, cohesive team dynamics are required including professional competence, mutual respect, accountability, effective communication, and collaboration. This article highlights the contribution of each member of the NICU team. The dynamics of team collaboration are presented with the goal of improving outcomes of infants and families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Maziero Barbosa
- Rehabilitation Department, University of Illinois Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois 60605, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
|
46
|
Gatzke-Kopp LM, Jetha MK, Segalowitz SJ. The role of resting frontal EEG asymmetry in psychopathology: afferent or efferent filter? Dev Psychobiol 2012; 56:73-85. [PMID: 23168718 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Resting EEG asymmetry evident early in life is thought to bias affective behaviors and contribute to the development of psychopathology. However, it remains unclear at what stage of information processing this bias occurs. Asymmetry may serve as an afferent filter, modulating emotional reactivity to incoming stimuli; or as an efferent filter, modulating behavioral response tendencies under emotional conditions. This study examines 209 kindergarten children (M = 6.03 years old) to test predictions put forth by the two models. Resting asymmetry was examined in conjunction with electrodermal and cardiac measures of physiological reactivity to four emotion-inducing film clips (fear, sad, happy, anger) and teacher ratings of psychopathology. Results confirm an association between increased right side cortical activation and internalizing symptom severity as well as left activation and externalizing symptom severity. Significant interactions between resting asymmetry and physiological reactivity to emotion indicate that physiological reactivity moderates the association between resting asymmetry and symptoms of psychopathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Gatzke-Kopp
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Social Science Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University, 110 S. Henderson, University Park, PA, 16802
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
47
|
Feng X, Forbes EE, Kovacs M, George CJ, Lopez-Duran NL, Fox NA, Cohn JF. Children's depressive symptoms in relation to EEG frontal asymmetry and maternal depression. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2012; 40:265-76. [PMID: 21894523 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-011-9564-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the relations of school-age children's depressive symptoms, frontal EEG asymmetry, and maternal history of childhood-onset depression (COD). Participants were 73 children, 43 of whom had mothers with COD. Children's EEG was recorded at baseline and while watching happy and sad film clips. Depressive symptoms were measured using parent-report of Children's Depression Inventory. The key findings are the interaction effects between baseline and film frontal EEG asymmetry on child depressive symptoms. Specifically, relative right frontal EEG asymmetry while watching happy or sad film clip was associated with elevated depressive symptoms for children who also exhibited right frontal EEG asymmetry at baseline. Results suggest that right frontal EEG asymmetry that is consistent across situations may be an marker of depression-prone children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Feng
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
48
|
Pizur-Barnekow K, Erickson S. Perinatal Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Implications for Occupational Therapy in Early Intervention Practice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/0164212x.2011.566165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
|
49
|
Segrave RA, Cooper NR, Thomson RH, Croft RJ, Sheppard DM, Fitzgerald PB. Individualized alpha activity and frontal asymmetry in major depression. Clin EEG Neurosci 2011; 42:45-52. [PMID: 21309442 DOI: 10.1177/155005941104200110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Lateralized differences in frontal alpha power in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) are thought to reflect an aberrant affective processing style. However research into anterior alpha asymmetry and MDD has often produced conflicting results. The current study aimed to investigate whether individualized alpha bandwidths provide a more sensitive measure of anterior alpha asymmetry in MDD than the traditional fixed 8-13 Hz alpha band. Resting EEG was recorded from 34 right-handed female participants (18 controls, 16 MDD). Each participant's Individual Alpha Frequency was used to delineate a broad individualized alpha band and three individualized narrow alpha sub-bands: lower alpha1, lower alpha 2 and upper alpha. Activity within the broad and narrow individualized bandwidths and within the traditional fixed alpha band were used to compare a) controls and acutely depressed individuals and b) medicated and unmedicated MDD participants. Individualizing and subdividing the alpha bandwidth did not add appreciably to the sensitivity of anterior alpha asymmetry in MDD as no significant differences in lateralized alpha power between controls and MDD participants were observed in any alpha bandwidth. This finding was consistent under two reference schemes and across multiple scalp locations. Within the MDD group, antidepressant use was associated with significantly greater right than left hemispheric power in the lower alpha 1 band. The relevance of this finding is discussed in relation to the electrophysiological correlates of antidepressant medication use, lateralized differences in affective processing and treatment resistant MDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R A Segrave
- Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, The Alfred and Monash University School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
50
|
Laing S, McMahon C, Ungerer J, Taylor A, Badawi N, Spence K. Mother-child interaction and child developmental capacities in toddlers with major birth defects requiring newborn surgery. Early Hum Dev 2010; 86:793-800. [PMID: 20888152 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2010.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2010] [Revised: 08/22/2010] [Accepted: 08/31/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence exists of the important role of the mother-child relationship in child development, yet with the exception of prematurity, little is known of the impact of biologic risk on this relationship. AIMS We investigated the quality of the mother-child interaction in association with early development in toddlers who had newborn surgery for major birth defects. METHODS Ninety-three toddlers (Mean age=24.7 months, SD=4.6) requiring newborn surgery for major birth defects, underwent developmental testing and participated in a videotaped free play interaction with their mothers. Interactions were rated using the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development schema. Interaction ratings were compared with normative data and within group differences were also examined in relation to child developmental status. RESULTS Overall mean interaction ratings were suboptimal and significantly different from normative data; with the exception of child negative mood. Forty-one children (44%) had developmental delay. Mother and child interactive behaviour ratings were consolidated into three factors (Maternal Responsivity, Maternal Intrusiveness, and Child Positive Interactivity) for multivariate analyses. Compared to children developing normally, those with developmental delay showed significantly less positive interactivity and had mothers who were less responsive and more intrusive. Child behaviour with the tester was related to child behaviour with the mother. CONCLUSION Quality of mother-child interaction is nonoptimal in children with major birth defects requiring newborn surgery. Mothers of infants with developmental delay are most at risk of interaction difficulties and may benefit from early identification and timely intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Laing
- Grace Centre for Newborn Care, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|