Factors Affecting Prenatal Development : An Analysis from the Sunnah and Contemporary Psychology

Abstract

Recent investigations suggest that certain factors play an important role in the development of a child during the prenatal period. This article aims to examine the factors affecting prenatal development, significantly, before and during pregnancy with respect to the development of a child’s personality at later stages of life. The Sunnah and contemporary psychology highlight a number of factors that may have a direct or indirect impact on maternal and fetus health. The Sunnah explicitly discusses these factors from a religious and humanistic paradigm for maternal-child health and care during pregnancy. Conversely, contemporary psychologists examine such factors based on the investigations conducted during pregnancy. In order to provide a comprehensive overview of the issue, this research employs content analysis methodology to find out commonalities and differences between the authentic traditions (Hadiths) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and contemporary psychological studies and research. This study attempted to integrate the religious and psychological perspectives on mother-child health care strategies, therefore, is considered beneficial for humanity specifically for Muslim communities globally. The findings of this article suggest that physical, psychological, religious, and social factors may affect the mother and her fetus respectively from the Sunnah domain. On the other hand, psychological studies stress the physical, psychological, and social factors with no emphasize on the religious aspects, which are key determinants to affect the mother and her fetus during pregnancy. This endeavor also gives an extensive insight into the factors influencing the development at the prenatal period from a mother-child care perspective, and hopefully, will serve humankind particularly Muslim parent to take care of their children during prenatal stage.