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Dyssynchrony, conflict, and resolution: positive contributions to infant development
Z Biringen1, R N Emde, S Pipp-Siegel
1Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Mother-infant interactions involve more than just harmony. Research shows that conflict and its resolution are key to healthy development and optimal infant outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Infant Mental Health
- Family Studies
Background:
- Traditional psychological research prioritizes conflict-free mother-infant interactions.
- Emerging research highlights the significance of interactional challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent research on mother-infant interactional dyssynchrony and conflict.
- To explore the role of conflict resolution in normative development and infant outcomes.
- To suggest future research directions and clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent psychological and developmental studies.
- Theoretical synthesis of concepts related to interactional conflict and resolution.
- Analysis of empirical data on mother-infant dyadic interactions.
Main Results:
- Dyssynchrony and conflict are not necessarily detrimental; their successful resolution is crucial.
- These challenging interactional patterns contribute to normative development.
- Effective conflict resolution is linked to optimal infant outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Mother-infant interaction is a dynamic process that includes conflict and resolution.
- Understanding and addressing interactional conflict is vital for infant mental health.
- Clinical interventions should consider the role of conflict resolution in dyadic functioning.