Mothers' and infants' roles: distinguishing the questions to be asked

Abstract

The mother-infant relationship consists of interaction sequences, each of which is in some measure unique. We must therefore study pooled data from interactions of the same 'type' occurring within a limited time period. Changes in the relationship must be assessed by comparing data from different time periods. To understand the dynamics of the interaction, it is essential to formulate sharply the questions being asked. In particular, the following questions must not be confused: 'Which partner is primarily responsible for determining the course of this type of interaction in a particular time period?' 'Changes in which partner are responsible for changes in the pattern of interaction between time periods?' and 'Are differences between mothers or between infants primarily responsible for inter-dyad differences in any one time period?' The argument is illustrated with data from rhesus monkeys.