Interactive features in 0-3 years children exposed to substances in utero.

Introduction: Several studies suggest that children of addicted mothers are a population characterized by structural and somatic changes in development and by cognitive and affective symptoms. Despite the amount of studies on the detrimental effects of substance-exposure on child development, outcomes are still inconsistent particularly on the early interactive-relational development. Method The research aims to evaluate and monitor the interactive-relational development of children born from drug-addicted mothers from 3th to 24th month of child’s life. The main goal is to identify specific developmental pathways of these children in order to organize the intervention strategies. In this direction, from July 2012 to October 2013, 20 mother-child dyads were observed every three months using the Emotional Availability Scales (Biringen, et al., 1998) in order to assess the quality of the interactive mother-child exchanges in the course of child’s early development and the respective contribution of the mother and the child to the relationship. Results Results highlight a partially adequate maternal sensitivity and mother’s ability to structure the interaction with the child. Globally, the mothers appear to be able to perceive adequately the child’s cues, but they could not respond sensitively in a consistent way. On the other hand, children’s responsivity to maternal stimuli was sufficiently good. Children show the ability to enjoy being involved in the interaction with the mother and the capacity to adjust and to follow her lead. Finally, children seem to be able to involve the mother in the interaction, addressing her both with verbal and non-verbal cues. Conclusions Drug addicted babies are “special kids” born from “special mothers”, considering their early experience characterized by multiple biological and psychological alterations that, even though subtle and not always openly evident, are needed to take into account when it comes to program and to implement assessment and treatment interventions.