| Abstract: | Language arises out of the infant-caregiver's nonverbal communication patterns. These patterns are transactional in nature and are in part stimulated by genetically based fixed-action patterns of the infant. Child-rearing practices of the caregiver greatly influence the rate and nature of infant's language development and later measures of achievement, particularly IQ scores. Marked differences in child-rearing patterns are found among social class, ethnic and racial groups. Means of facilitating an infant's development are discussed. |
