Parental representations after preterm birth: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Neonatal Care
• Maternal Mental Health

Background:

• Preterm birth affects millions globally, posing risks for atypical development and parental stress.
• While preterm birth doesn't systematically cause insecure attachment, environmental factors are crucial.
• Parental representations (PR) are increasingly recognized as significant in preterm infant development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current findings on parental representations (PR), especially maternal PR, in the context of preterm birth.
• To explore the association between PR quality and dyadic interaction patterns in preterm infants.
• To highlight the importance of parental mental elaboration and contextual factors for socio-emotional development.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was conducted.
• Focused on research concerning parental representations (PR) in preterm birth contexts.
• Examined studies on dyadic interactions and socio-emotional development.

Main Results:

• PR quality is linked to specific dyadic interaction patterns, indicating vulnerability factors.
• Parental mental elaboration mechanisms and contextual moderators are vital for supporting preterm infants.
• No systematic link found between preterm birth and insecure attachment, emphasizing environmental roles.

Conclusions:

• Investigating PR in preterm birth presents challenges but is crucial for understanding development.
• A developmental, non-deterministic perspective is needed for future research on PR.
• Family-centered care and public policy supporting the "First 1,000 days" are essential for preterm infants.