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Updated: Jan 7, 2026

A Common Marmoset Model of Mother-Infant Intervention for Breastfeeding Disorders in the Presence of Paternal Inhibition and Maternal Neglect
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A Common Marmoset Model of Mother-Infant Intervention for Breastfeeding Disorders in the Presence of Paternal Inhibition and Maternal Neglect

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Early breastfeeding as protective factor for preschool emotional and behavioral health

Vargas-Pérez Susana1,2, Hernández-Martínez Carmen1,2,3, Voltas Núria1,2

  • 1Research Group in Nutrition and Mental Health (NUTRISAM), Rovira i Virgili University, Tarragona, Spain.

European Journal of Pediatrics
|December 24, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Early breastfeeding for 1-4 months is linked to fewer emotional and behavioral problems in children. This suggests that the intensity of early breastfeeding, not just prolonged duration, may be key for child development.

Area of Science:

  • Child psychology
  • Developmental pediatrics
  • Public health

Background:

  • Breastfeeding is associated with positive child development outcomes.
  • Existing research on breastfeeding duration and mental health in early childhood shows inconsistent results.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between breastfeeding duration and emotional/behavioral problems in 4-year-olds.
  • To consider psychosocial, demographic, and perinatal factors in this association.

Main Methods:

  • A sample of 564 children was analyzed.
  • Breastfeeding duration was categorized (none, 1-4 months, 4-8 months, >8 months).
  • Emotional and behavioral development was assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL 1½–5), with regression models applied.

Main Results:

  • Breastfeeding for 1-4 months correlated with lower internalizing and externalizing problem scores on the CBCL 1½–5.
  • This duration also reduced the risk of clinical internalizing problems and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • Protective effects were observed for 4-8 months of breastfeeding on specific subscales, with no additional benefits beyond 8 months.

Conclusions:

  • Breastfeeding within the first 4 months may offer protection against emotional and behavioral issues.
  • The intensity of early breastfeeding appears more critical for child development than extended durations.

Keywords:
Behavioral problemsBreastfeedingChild developmentChild mental healthEmotional problems

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