Some Factors to be Controlled in Studies of the Behavior of Newborns

Abstract

This paper has summarized studies indicating the methodological importance to neonatal behavior of a number of factors including (a) the level of arousal or state of the infant; (b) effects of being first born; (c) complications of pregnancy and delivery; (d) effects of analgesics and anesthetics; (e) effects of bottle-feeding versus breast-feeding and interaction effects with (d); (f) age differences and their interaction with (c) and (d). Control over level of arousal or the state of the infant is of particular importance. Until relationships are worked out between various behaviors of the neonate and the special circumstances existing in the early period it is suggested that suitable experimental and statistical controls be provided. Alternatively a demonstration may be provided in each case that these factors or special circumstances have not affected results. Research designs would have to be set up specifically to make allowances for the latter. One type of research design is suggested which might be appropriate for many studies.