Patterns of disrupted maternal behaviour within psychoanalytic parent-infant psychotherapy: a case study [Volume 2]

Research has identified atypical parental behaviours that are associated with the development of disorganised attachment in infants. This paper reviews the literature on the different types of these atypical parental behaviours, their nature and theories regarding their aetiology. In particular, research into the mechanisms through which specific parental behaviours may lead to infants developing a disorganised attachment is considered. Within this, the research on parental unresolved childhood attachment traumas and how these may be repeated and transmitted within the parent-infant relationships are explored. This includes the research on the impact of this on infants in terms of risk of later psychopathology. Given the mental health and thus clinical implications, the literature on the ways in which parent-infant psychoanalytic psychotherapy addresses these parental behaviours, preventing these potential difficulties, is explored. Using the research to inform clinical practice, this review considers the important implications for how early disturbance in the mother-baby relationship can be addressed within this treatment modality and the importance of early intervention in promoting a more positive attachment between infant and parent