In infancy and early childhood, mental health refers to "the capacity to experience, regulate, and express emotions; form close and secure interpersonal relationships; and explore the environment and learn" [J. Osofsky, statement before Congressional Committee, 2004].
Infant mental health reflects both the social-emotional capacities and the primary relationships in children birth through age five. Therefore, young children’s social experiences and opportunities to explore the world depend on the love and care they receive, the child and the child’s relationships are central to “infant mental health.”
The first years of life provide the basis for children’s mental health and social-emotional development. Social development includes the ability to form healthy relationships with others, and the knowledge of social rules and standards. Emotional development includes the experience of feelings about self and others, with a range of positive and negative emotions, as well as the ability to control and regulate feelings in culturally appropriate ways.
Scientific research has demonstrated that babies are born with brains that are wired for engaging in relationships with adults. Like adults, babies have emotional responses to those relationships. Babies actively seek out and engage with the adults who care for them. Supportive relationships with adults, particularly primary caregivers, are crucial for physical survival and for healthy social-emotional development.
Nurturing Relationships to Enrich Mental Health in Infants
Loving, nurturing relationships enhance emotional development and mental health. When infants and toddlers are treated with kindness and encouragement, they develop a sense of safety and emotional security. A nurturing caring relationship provides a “secure base” from which children can begin exploring the world, frequently checking back for reassurance. The more they explore and try new things, the more success they experience. Good relationships help children feel valued. Children watch adults and copy them. Children who feel loved and cherished grow up to be adults who care about others.
Consequences of Unhealthy Early Relationships
Children may respond to the lack of a healthy relationship in a combination of ways. Some children seem sad, rejected and lethargic. Others may become depressed or develop eating or sleeping problems. A number of children try to meet their own needs. “Self-stimulating” or rocking back-and-forth is also common. Some children become aggressive and hostile without provocation. Others may be so starved for affection that they seek hugs from any willing adult. When past relationships have not been nurturing, children won’t allow comforting, even when they are hurt.
Behaviors That May Indicate Mental Health Problems
- Displays very little emotion
- Does not show interest in sights sounds or touch
- Rejects or avoids being touched or held or playing with others
- Unusually difficult to soothe or console
- Unable to comfort or calm self
- Extremely fearful or on-guard
- Does not turn to familiar adults for comfort or help
- Exhibits sudden behavior changes
The development of these capacities during the child's first three years or the failure to do so lays a foundation that affects the rest of the child's life. Infant mental health is synonymous with healthy social and emotional development. Therefore, addressing infant mental health concerns greatly impacts the development of self-worth, self-confidence and self-regulation of social-emotional development. Healthy social-emotional development is essential for success in school and in life.
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