Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2012
Abstract
Fetal detection of adversity is a conserved trait that allows many species to adapt their early developmental trajectories to ensure survival. According to the fetal-programming model, exposure to stressful or hostile conditions in utero is associated with compromised development and a lifelong risk of adverse health outcomes. In a longitudinal study, we examined the consequences of prenatal and postnatal exposure to adversity for infant development. We found increased motor and mental development during the 1st year of life among infants whose mothers experienced congruent levels of depressive symptoms during and after pregnancy, even when the levels of symptoms were relatively high and the prenatal and postnatal environments were unfavorable. Congruence between prenatal and postnatal environments prepares the fetus for postnatal life and confers an adaptive advantage for critical survival functions during early development.
Recommended Citation
Sandman CA, Davis EP & Glynn LM (2012). Prescient human fetuses thrive. Psychological Science, 23, 93-100.
doi: 10.1177/0956797611422073
Copyright
Sage
Comments
This is a pre-copy-editing, author-produced PDF of an article accepted for publication in Psychological Science, volume 23, 2012 following peer review. The definitive publisher-authenticated version is available online at DOI: 10.1177/0956797611422073