Explores giftedness from infancy to adolescence within a psychodynamic developmental framework. Gifted development is discussed in terms of drive, ego functions, object relations, and self-experience. Also discussed are the history of giftedness, gifted infants and preschoolers, gifted school-age children, and giftedness in male and female…

Examined the extent of family-centered practices in early intervention, professionals' and families' values about the practices, and relation of participants' characteristics to practices. Found that professionals reported more family-centered typical practice than did families. Home-based services were most predictive of frequent reports of…

Reports on the results of a two-year longitudinal study of mother-infant dyads (N=23) observed during a free-play session when infants were six and eight months of age. Children were assessed for language and intellectual outcomes during the second and third years of life. This information may help school professionals design effective strategies…

This study interviewed 39 mothers of young children with autism of whom 19 reported their children had experienced developmental regression, especially in verbal and non-verbal communication and social skills. Mean age of regression was 24 months. There was little difference between children who regressed and those who did not in maternal…

This study examined mothers' attitudes toward pregnancy and outcomes of unwanted pregnancies in 1,454 women in Moscow (Russia). Unplanned and unwanted pregnancies greatly increased the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes (especially prematurity and intrauterine developmental delay). The principal factor contributing to an unwanted pregnancy was…

Reviews the literature on attachment and child maltreatment in relation to the intergenerational transmission of maltreatment. Review of 13 studies suggests that a poor mother-infant relationship is the primary process by which maltreatment continues from one generation to the next. (Author/DB)

This article explores the impact of the mapping work of the Human Genome Project on individuals with mental retardation and the negative effects of genetic testing. The potential to identify disabilities and the concept of eugenics are discussed, along with ethical issues surrounding potential genetic therapies. (Contains references.) (CR)

Considers reasons for infants' selective looking and information gathering. Discusses three general theoretical issues raised by studies of selective looking, related to type of information gathered, speed of processing time, and the effect of prior exposure on processing time. Considers these issues in relation to Needham's study of infant…

Comparison of ages at which typically developing infants and infants with Down syndrome achieved vocal and motor milestones found that rhythmic behaviors (canonical babbling, hand-banging) were associated with each other and somewhat delayed in Down syndrome infants. Postural behaviors (stepping, standing, sitting, creeping) were also associated…

Claims that Matthews sees independence as moving freely and being able to function apart from the adult, leading to competence and cognitive development for life. Reiterates the importance of emotion, relationships, and the mother as the central part of the child's prepared environment. (MOK)

Reviews research that demonstrates that children in the one- to two-year age range are able to remember specific events over weeks and months. Recall is influenced by what young children are asked to remember, the number of times they experience events, and the availability of cues or reminders. (SLD)

Spouses completed measures about self and relationship and were videotaped while interacting at home. Spouses reporting greater marital adjustment exhibited more positive engagement during couple discussion and greater harmony during family play. Older spouses displayed less positive engagement than younger couples. Greater hostility was observed…

Maintains that Muller and Overton (1998) challenge the current Zeitgeist regarding infant cognitive development. Suggests that researchers reconsider infants as developing actors in a meaningful environment, not as born philosophers. Notes the need to explore processes underlying key transitions in infancy and the relation between action and…

Examination of data from the Infant Health and Development Program, a comprehensive program to avert health and intellectual impairments associated with premature low birthweight, does not show any enduring and meaningful effects on cognitive development resulting from the program. Discusses findings in terms of intelligence and its mutability.…

Surveys early brain development research. Discusses the importance of attachment, windows of opportunity, and the importance of quality in care. Suggests 6 ways to promote healthy development, lists 10 things every child needs, and poses 12 questions to ask about early brain development. (DLH)