The Role of Maternal-Fatal Attachment and Psychological Well-being in Infant Neurodevelopment

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between maternal psychological distress during the perinatal period, maternal-fatal attachment, and subsequent neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants. The historical reverence for motherhood in Azerbaijan faces contemporary challenges as limited awareness leaves expectant mothers vulnerable to psychological hardships during the perinatal period. The intrauterine environment is influenced not only by maternal nutrition but also by maternal emotional states, with implications for fatal neurodevelopment. 

A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with 276 mothers of children diagnosed with various neurodevelopmental conditions, including Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and Developmental Delay. Participants completed retrospective assessments of prenatal psychological distress, maternal-fatal attachment behaviours, and provided demographic and clinical information. Results of the 276 participants, 140 (50.7%) reported significant psychological distress during gestation. A statistically significant association was identified between prenatal distress and child's diagnostic category (χ² = 14.27, df = 5, p = .014). Mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder reported the highest rates of prenatal distress (68.4%). Significant inverse relationships were observed between prenatal distress and maternal-fatal attachment behaviours, including emotional closeness to the fetus (r = -.42, p < .001). 

Findings demonstrate a significant correlation between maternal psychological distress during pregnancy and subsequent neurodevelopmental challenges in offspring. The results underscore the need for perinatal mental health screening and culturally appropriate intervention programs in Azerbaijan.

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