Search

Background: Preterm-born children are at increased risk of adverse developmental outcomes, and their parents may experience increased stress levels. The Mother-Infant Transaction Program (MITP) is an early intervention that aims to enhance the parent-infant relationship and child development. The present study investigated differences in parents' experience of stress and concerns about caring for their preterm-born child according to whether they participated in the programme. Parental satisfaction with the intervention was also explored. Methods: As part of a follow-up study at 36 months, a randomized controlled trial of the MITP-14 parents of 11 children from the intervention group, and 17 parents of 14 children from the control group were interviewed by the use of semi-structured focus group interviews. The interviews were analysed thematically. Results: The intervention parents reported that the knowledge, advice, guidance and emotional support given during the intervention made them feel less stressed and more confident, competent and secure caring for their preterm born child than they would otherwise have been. The control parents described feeling less involved and emotionally supported, and seemed more anxious about their child's development than the intervention parents. All parents were vigilant and alert to their child's needs and monitored developmental milestones carefully. Conclusion: This qualitative exploration of the influences of the MITP revealed a positive impact of the intervention and seems to be an important educational and supportive initiative. Thus, reducing parental stress and enhancing confidence in the parental role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim of the present study was to examine the long-term effect of an early intervention for preterm infants on cognitive, gross motor and behavioural outcomes at 36 months corrected age. One hundred and eighteen preterm infants born 2005–2006 with gestational age ≥30.0 and <36.0 weeks were randomized to an early intervention involving the Mother–Infant Transaction Program (n =61) or a control group (n =57). At 36 months, 32 children in the intervention and 30 in the control group were assessed. Outcome measures: Ages & Stages Questionnaire, Ages & Stages Questionnaire: Social-Emotional, Child Behaviour Checklist 1½–5 and Mullen Scale of Early Learning. The intervention programme had no effect on cognitive, motor or behavioural development in this group of mainly moderate and late preterm infants at 36 months corrected age. Four explanations may be proposed: the programme has a less effect on moderate and late preterm infants than in more preterm infants; modifications of the intervention might increase efficacy; a cumulative effect of the intervention leads to more obvious effects at later ages, and an improved standard care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units may support infant development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]