The First Stage of Maternal Attachment : A Review of the Literature

This review of the literature examined the research investigating maternal attachment in the postpartum period. The purpose of this review was to determine the current status of knowledge about maternal attachment. Analysis of descriptive studies revealed seven behaviors as possible indicators of maternal attachment. Results of experimental studies were inconclusive, and did not consistently document that a particular intervention could enhance maternal attachment . Manifestation of attachment behaviors may be culturally dependent. Recommendations for future studies in this area were made based on the analysis of the current research