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Updated: May 30, 2026
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Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Preterm infants' early developmental status is associated with later developmental outcome
Cristina Lundqvist-Persson1, Gerd Lau, Per Nordin
1Skaraborg Institute for Research and Development, Skövde, Sweden. cristina.lundqvist-p@skaraborg-institute.se
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|August 19, 2011
Summary
Preterm infants show early developmental delays in self-regulation and motor skills. These early deviations are significant risk factors for later optimal functioning in children.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Neonatology
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Preterm infants often experience developmental challenges.
- Early identification of predictors for later development is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess preterm infant development from 40 weeks gestational age to 18 months corrected age.
- To identify early predictors of later developmental outcomes in preterm infants.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 51 preterm infants.
- Assessments included Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale, self-regulation scale, Bayley Scales of Infant Development, general movements, and maternal attachment style.
- Follow-up assessments conducted from term age to 18 months corrected age.
Main Results:
- Preterm infants exhibited lower maturity and self-regulation compared to full-term infants at term and 1-month corrected age.
- A higher percentage of preterm infants showed abnormal motor quality at 3 months corrected age.
- Delayed mental, motor, and behavioral development in preterm infants was linked to self-regulation, motor quality, and maternal attachment; maternal education was a key factor.
Conclusions:
- Preterm infants display early deviations in self-regulation, motor quality, and overall development.
- These early deviations serve as risk factors for suboptimal later functioning.
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