Factors Related to Mother-Infant Interaction in Infants with Motor Delays

The relationships between infant and maternal characteristics, family function, and interactive ability were examined for 36 mothers and infants with motor delays receiving physical therapy, occupational therapy, or both as part of early intervention. Correlation results support the reciprocal nature of mother-infant interaction and the theory that multiple factors are related to interactive ability. Multiple regression analysis indicated that mother's interactive ability, motor development, and family resources explained 39% of the variance associated with infant's interactive ability. Family resources was the strongest predictor of infant's interactive ability, which may reflect the broad scope of resources measured and the dependency of the infant on the adult. Infant's interactive ability and family resources explained 16% of the variance associated with mother's interactive ability. Implications for family-centered early intervention and physical therapy are discussed