The development of attachment behaviors in pregnant adolescents

Abstract

The development of attachment behaviors over time in a group of pregnant adolescents, ages 12 to 19, was investigated with Rubin's theoretical framework. Seventy-nine low-income pregnant adolescents enrolled in the study in their first trimester. Follow-up data were collected in the second and third trimesters (n = 64 and 54, respectively) and after delivery (n = 47). Multivariate analysis, using profile analysis, indicated that maternal attachment in adolescents begins in pregnancy and increases over time, especially after quickening. Age-related differences were noted in the development of maternal-fetal attachment behaviors related to giving of self. Results showed a positive relationship between attachment in the third trimester and demonstration of affectionate behaviors toward the infant after birth. These findings are consistent with the theoretical framework.

PIP: Evidence suggests that the quality of the relationship between mother and infant depends upon the mother's relationship with the developing fetus. The mother comes to love her unborn child through developmental tasks which include acceptance, incorporation, bonding, and giving of herself. The author explored the development over time of maternal-fetal and maternal-infant attachment in 79 low-income females aged 12-19 years who were pregnant in their first trimester upon enrollment in the study. Rubin's theoretical framework was employed. Follow-up data were collected in the second and third trimesters as well as after delivery from 64, 54, and 47 of the participants, respectively. Multivariate analysis, using profile analysis, indicated that maternal attachment in adolescents begins during pregnancy and increases over time, especially after quickening. Age-related differences were noted in the development of maternal-fetal attachment behaviors related to giving of self. A positive relationship was identified between attachment in the third trimester and the demonstration of affectionate behaviors toward the infant after birth. These findings are consistent with the theoretical framework.