INFANT TEMPERAMENT AND PARENTING STRESS: RELATION TO MATERNAL AND PATERNAL REFLECTIVE FUNCTION

Laura Vismara

;Cristina Sechi;Roberta Fadda;Loredana Lucarelli

2023-01-01

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Abstract

Introduction: Temperament is a basic disposition that differentiates individuals in terms of reactivity and regulation, and it is the result of complex interactions among genetic, biological, and environmental variables across time. Aim of the study: The current study aims at evaluating parental reflective function (RF) as a relevant environmental codeterminant of temperament. Indeed, reflective function facilitates within the interactive exchanges the child’s capacity to fully experience, regulate and organize a wide range of affect and other mental states. Material and Method: RF was evaluated in 40 first-time parents’ couples - mothers’ mean age was 32.7 years (SD = 4.2 years), and fathers’ mean age was 36.8 years (SD = 5.4) - during the seventh month of pregnancy, through the Adult Attachment Interview. Also, at six months of the baby, parents filled out the Infant Behavior Questionnaire–Revised to assess the infant's perceived temperament, and the Parenting Stress Index–SF. Results: Both maternal and paternal lower RF during pregnancy was related with higher child dysfunctional interaction. Moreover, lower maternal RF was related with higher perceived infant sadness, while lower paternal RF was related with higher infant negative affectivity. Conclusions: Our findings highlight that early parenting programs should target reflective functioning in both mothers and fathers, considering their potential differential impact on child temperament and parental mental health. Indeed, supporting and enhancing parental reflective functioning may favor the child's development and her family’s wellness.