Distinct Periods of Mother‐Infant Conflict in Normal Development: Sources of Progress and Germs of Pathology

Abstract

Questionnaire and interview data were collected on 15 mothers with babies between 0 and 20 months old. A prospective, longitudinal design was used. Mother-infant conflicts were clustered in distinct, difficult periods and were preceded by regressive behaviour of the infant. It is argued that conflict creates opportunities for learning and progress. On the other hand, it is discussed how mother-infant conflict can escalate into abuse, neglect and psychopathology.