Specific differences in motor performance between Gusii and American newborns and a modification of the Neonatal...

Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS) exams were performed on 24 Gusii (Kenya) newborns during their first 10 days of life. Their scores were compared to those of a low-risk white American sample. The Gusii showed unique motor tone requiring an expansion of the NBAS General Tone Scale. There were few significant differences between the Gusii and American samples. The Gusii scored better on motor maturity and had fewer tremors and startles. There were trends indicating better visual orienting and better habituation to light in the American sample, and better habituation to pinprick and more state changes but less irritability and better self-consoling by the Gusii sample. Both groups performed well and had relatively flat recovery curves. The results are discussed with regard to the influences of newborn behavior on caregiving activities and later development, and the genetic, intrauterine, and perinatal influences on newborn behavior. The need for culture-specific models of development is stated.