Mother-infant interaction : the case of infant siblings of children with ASD at 9, 12 and 18 months

Abstract

This dissertation is a longitudinal, observational study of the interactive behaviours of mother-infant dyads where the infant is more likely to receive an autism diagnosis (SibsA), as they have an older sibling who has already received a diagnosis, and a control comparison group of typically developing (TD) dyads. Interactions were videotaped when the infants were 9,12 and 18 months. The aim of the study is to paint a picture of the interactive environment experienced by SibsA infants. The theoretical framework acknowledged the bidirectional, intersubjective nature of the interaction, and the mother and infant's active role in shaping the exchange on a moment-by-moment basis.