$Unique_ID{BRK00216}
$Pretitle{
Pregnancy and Childbirth
Mental and Emotional Conditions}
$Title{How Impressionable are Babies at an Early Age?}
$Subject{depression post-partum}
$Volume{K-23, E-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


How Impressionable are Babies at an Early Age?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  After delivering our baby, my wife has sunk into a severe 
depression.  I am worried that the baby will be able to sense this.  How 
impressionable are babies at this age?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  It is possible for even very young babies to sense a mother's 
post-partum depression.  It is not clear, however, whether there may be any 
long term effects because of these negative moods.  Studies have found that 
infants--even those who are ten weeks old and younger--respond to their 
mother's emotions.  When a mother looks into a baby's eyes and speaks with 
loving, happy or joyful words and expressions, the infant usually responds 
with similar expression.
     When the mother expresses sadness, babies often turn away and become
quiet.  Many try to soothe themselves by sucking on something--a lip or a
finger.  The reaction to a mother's anger is often tears on the part of the
baby.  Other babies may respond to anger by freezing and a blank stare.  Still
other babies may mimic the mother's anger.
     Until your wife comes through her depression, you should try to give her
all the support you can and your baby plenty of time, expressing love,
happiness and positive feelings.  If this situation is prolonged unduly,
please seek some help from your physician as well.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
