Exploring the Role of Sensitive Responsiveness and Non-Directiveness in Mother-Infant Interaction: An Intervention Approach

Abstract

This exploratory research study aimed to investigate mother-infant interaction, specifically focusing on sensitive responsiveness, non-directiveness, infant attentiveness, positive affect, negative affect, and liveness. The study was conducted in two phases. In Phase I, the researchers examined these aspects of mother-infant interaction, while Phase II involved implementing an intervention to enhance sensitive responsiveness and address caregiver responsiveness shortcomings. Pre and posttests were conducted to evaluate the impact of the intervention on caregivers.

The study included a sample of 10 mother-infant dyads from the Gujranwala region of Pakistan, selected through purposive sampling. The participants consisted of mothers with varying levels of education and occupation, as well as infants of different ages, birth orders, and sibling status. Inclusion criteria required physically and mentally fit caregivers and infants without psychological disorders, while exclusion criteria involved infants or mothers with psychological or medical problems and second or third children based on birth order.

The research instruments used in this study were the Mother-Infant Interaction Global Rating Scales (MACI) and the Circle of Security Infant Intervention (COS). Phase I involved pre-test data collection using the MACI model and video recordings of caregiver-infant interactions. Phase II implemented the Circle of Security intervention to enhance sensitive responsiveness and promote secure attachment between caregivers and children.

The Circle of Security intervention comprised three sessions, with a 2-day gap between each session. Post-testing occurred one week after the intervention, utilizing the same video recording and decoding procedures. Descriptive analyses and correlations between the MACI scales were conducted. Participants provided informed consent and agreed to have their interactions recorded before and after the intervention.

The study's findings underscored the significance of sensitive responsiveness, non-directive behavior, and attentiveness in mother-infant interactions. These factors were found to contribute to positive child personality development and a favorable attitude toward caregivers. The study also identified a lack of sensitive responsiveness among caregivers, which the Circle of Security intervention aimed to address.