| Abstract: | Fifty-one mother-infant pairs were screened at birth and at one month of age using the Neonatal Perception Inventories (NPI). This instrument identified 20 infants who were judged at high risk for the development of subsequent emotional disorder. Evaluation of the study group at 14–17 months of age, using the Infant Mental Health Profile, documented impairment in the areas of attachment, confidence and coping in 80–95% of those infants with high risk NPI ratings. The use of the NPI as a screening instrument in a primary care private pediatric setting is discussed. |
