The relations between maternal mind-mindedness, parenting stress and obstetric history among Chinese mothers

Abstract

ABSTRACTRelations between maternal mind-mindedness, parenting stress and obstetric history were investigated in a Chinese sample of 96 mother-infant dyads (Minfants' age = 15.95 months, Mmaternal age = 30 years). Parenting stress and obstetric history were assessed through questionnaires while mind-mindedness was observed through video recordings of mother-infant interactions. Among mothers who perceived their pregnancy to have been difficult, those who had planned to conceive were more likely to comment appropriately on their infants' mental states. Mothers who displayed a highly emotional reaction of an exclusively positive nature when their babies were first given to them experienced lower total parenting stress scores. Mothers who were more mind-mindedness experienced lower parenting stress. Main carer status and daily time spent with child were related to parenting stress. Results are discussed in relation to socio-cultural factors that might shape antenatal perceptions and influence parenting stress which in turn affect mothers' relationships with their children.