Saving the bathwater

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Developmental Psychology
• Pediatric Behavioral Science

Background:

• The Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS) has been utilized for 15 years.
• Understanding newborn development and infant states of consciousness is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development and application of the NBAS over the past 15 years.
• To highlight how NBAS administration enhances understanding of infant development and parent-infant interactions.
• To emphasize the value of both qualitative and quantitative data from NBAS research.

Main Methods:

• Review of 15 years of NBAS development and application.
• Analysis of formal and informal uses of the NBAS.
• Examination of insights gained from NBAS administration.

Main Results:

• NBAS administration has deepened the understanding of newborn developmental forces.
• The scale has illuminated infant states of consciousness and predictive potential.
• Clinicians' ability to share information with parents and support parenting has been enhanced.

Conclusions:

• The NBAS provides valuable qualitative and quantitative insights into infant development.
• The scale supports clinicians in engaging with parents and the parenting process.
• Over 15 years, the NBAS has proven instrumental in advancing neonatal behavioral assessment.