The primary focus of work in the Child Development Unit is on the measurement and factors that affect the functional status and social emotional development of the young child as well as studies of parenting. We have developed experimental and behavioral paradigms for exploring these processes. These studies utilize multiple measures of behavior and emotional expression as well as autonomic and neuroendocrine function.

Currently we are examining the effects of in utero cocaine exposure and periventricular lesions on infants' neuromotor motor functioning utilizing the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment and kinematics analysis, a highly precise technique for measuring motor function. We are also examining the effects of in utero exposure on the social interactions of in utero exposed 6-month-old infants and their mothers. To investigate the effects of maternal depression and anxiety disorders on maternal caretaking and infant development, we are carrying out two longitudinal studies over the first 30 months of life. One study is laboratory based and videotapes face to face play interactions of the infants and their mothers. The second study is home based and videotapes naturally occurring interactions of mothers and their infants. We are also carrying out clinical and intervention studies based on this research, which are focused on similar issues.

Ph.D., 1968, University of Wisconsin