The relational context of infant crying. (Gordon, M. D., 2006) (Posted soon. Please email for copy).
Abstract:
Crying is an important elicitor of parental behavior which both
initiates and propels the development of relationship with self and
others. Appropriate responsiveness to an infant’s cries assists in the
modulation of arousal and lays critical foundations for the later
capacity to regulate emotions. Appropriate responsiveness also provides
the caretaker with a sense of mastery and satisfaction with parenting.
In this way, crying becomes an important part of a mutually reinforcing
attachment relationship.
Parenting advice regarding the appropriate
way to respond to a crying infant, however, is mixed. Experts convey to
parents the importance of quick response during the first three months
of life; but after this time, delays in response are regarded as
important opportunities for the infant’s development of self-soothing
strategies. This paper examines the research on crying as an attachment
behavior critical to the development of a mutually regulating, dyadic
relationship. The paper also analyzes existing popular advice on
self-soothing within a developmental framework and inquires whether
advice that encourages non-response might impact the development of
both emotional regulation and parental attunement.