Assessing Characteristics of Mother–Infant Dyadic Synchrony Among Vulnerable Mothers Using the Infant CARE-Index

Abstract

Objective

The postnatal period crucially influences the mother–infant relationship and subsequently the infant’s cognitive, physical, and psychosocial development. Maternal poor mental health may impact early interactions, potentially causing the infant’s developmental needs to go neglected.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we used the Infant CARE-Index to examine mother–infant interaction patterns among mothers with a history of depression or anxiety. Ten mother–infant dyads recruited from a Danish obstetric department participated in video recordings of mother–infant interactions three months postpartum. The primary outcome was the assessment of mother–infant dyadic synchrony using observational measures of the Infant CARE-Index when infants were three months old.

Results

Mother–infant dyadic synchrony was found to lack sensitivity, with maternal behaviour predominantly exhibiting low sensitivity and, occasionally, control, leading to overall unresponsiveness. The infants in the dyads exhibited moderately cooperative behaviour but with tendencies towards compulsive and challenging behaviours.

Conclusion

This study offers novel observational insights into early relational dynamics in mother–infant dyads affected by maternal mental health history—an area underexplored in Danish postnatal care. By applying the Infant CARE-Index, the findings highlight specific behavioural patterns that may hinder bonding and development. These results underscore the need for relationship-based, targeted, and flexible interventions to support vulnerable dyads and promote healthier developmental trajectories.