Subjective experiences of participating in an attachment-based early intervention parenting program

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Attachment Theory

Background:

• Parent-child attachment is crucial for infant development.
• Early disturbances in attachment can negatively impact mother-infant interaction.
• Attachment-based interventions can support secure relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore mothers' subjective experiences of the post-natal Building Early Attachment and Resilience (BEAR) program.
• To evaluate the program's effectiveness in encouraging maternal reflection on the parenting role.
• To assess the program's impact on mother-infant interaction and attachment.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing thematic analysis.
• Interviews conducted with thirteen mothers participating in the post-natal BEAR program.
• Exploration of mothers' reflections on their parenting role and infant interactions.

Main Results:

• Mothers reported increased reflection on their parenting role.
• Participants perceived improvements in mother-infant interactions.
• Mothers gained a better understanding of their infant's internal experiences.
• The BEAR program was found to be acceptable to mothers.

Conclusions:

• The post-natal BEAR program is acceptable and beneficial for mothers.
• The intervention facilitates the development of secure parent-infant attachment.
• Mentalisation-based approaches can effectively support early attachment.