The effects of prenatal stress on temperament and problem behavior of 27-month-old toddlers

Aim To examine, in a prospective study, the influence of prenatal stress on infant temperament and problem behavior. Method Self-report data on stress and anxiety, and levels of cortisol in saliva were collected from nulliparous women during pregnancy. Temperament of the child was measured at 27 months by parent report on the Infant Characteristics Questionnaire. Behavior of the child was assessed by direct observation during the administration of the Bayley Scales of Development 2 - 30, and by parent report on the Child Behavior Checklist 2 - 3. Results Complete data were available for 103 healthy toddlers. Logistic regression analyses were performed and results were adjusted for possible prenatal, perinatal and postnatal confounders. Perceived stress during pregnancy was a predictor of lower levels of restless/ disruptive temperament (OR = 0.77), more total behavioral problems (OR = 1.17), and more externalizing behavioral problems (OR = 1.12) in 2-year-olds. Fear of bearing a handicapped child was a predictor of higher levels of restless/ disruptive temperament (OR = 1.39) and more attention regulation problems in toddlers (OR = 1.46). Conclusions Increased levels of maternal prenatal stress appear to be associated with temperamental and behavioral problems in toddlers.