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Mature maternal defense mechanisms lead to better toddler outcomes

Mature maternal defense mechanisms led to better toddler outcomes, including greater attachment security and social-emotional competence and fewer behavioral problems, according to study findings in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

“For at-risk (single parent, low income, low support) mothers, healthy adaptation and the ability to manage stress have clear implications for parenting and the social-emotional well-being of their young offspring,” John H. Porcerelli, PhD, of Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, and colleagues wrote.

To assess associations between defense mechanisms in pregnant women and their children’s attachment security, social-emotional and behavioral adjustment, researchers followed 84 pregnant women during their last trimester of pregnancy through 2 years after birth. Mothers were recruited from community agencies serving primarily low-income families.

Mature, healthy maternal defense mechanisms were significantly associated with greater toddler attachment security and social-emotional competence and fewer behavioral problems, according to multiple regression analyses.

Less mature defenses, particularly disavowal, were associated with lower levels of attachment security and social-emotional competence.

Associations remained significant, or were slightly attenuated, when controlling for demographic variables and partner abuse during pregnancy.

“Findings from this study suggest that maternal defense mechanisms are important in understanding the nature of the earliest parent-child relationship and subsequent child adjustment in the early years of life,” Porcerelli and colleagues wrote. “Examining maternal defenses and other forms of coping may be particularly important during the prenatal and postnatal periods because this is typically a physically and emotionally demanding time, especially for women experiencing adversity and risk such as single parenthood, economic disadvantage, and difficulties with partners and social support.” – by Amanda Oldt

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.