Four Studies of Crisis in Parents of Prematures

Abstract

The responses of 86 families to the birth of a premature baby have been investigated in four linked studies in order to refine the concept and understanding of crisis. Patterns of the grappling behavior during the crisis were identified which enabled accurate predictions of the short-term mental health outcome. Psychological tasks presented by the stress of premature delivery were also identified. The adequacy with which these tasks were accomplished was predictive of the patterns of early maternal care and mother-child relationships. Results indicate that this type of study is relevant to studies of the causation of mental health and mental illness and to preventive intervention. Certain methodologic and research implications are derived from these studies and point to further research effort which is now practical and desirable.