[Behavior of full-term low-birth weight infants based on the Brazelton scale]

In order to evaluate the specific effects of low birth weight on neonatal behaviour, a group of 41 small-for-dates newborns were assessed using the updated Brazelton's neonatal behavioral assessment scale. Results were compared to those obtained from 41 neonates of full-weight, healthy and of similar characteristics. According to these data behavioral profile of the full-term but underweight newborn in comparison to full-weight newborn, could be described as follows: less reaction to animate and inanimate stimuli: more passivity and indifference to social interaction; poor motor general tone and poor consolability.