How Does it Impact My Child & Family

Untreated PRD interferes with a mother’s ability to engage in positive interactions with her child. The lack of positive interactions with the mother increases the child’s risk of developing insecure attachments, problematic behavior, and psychopathology while also decreasing the child’s cognitive and social competency.

Studies have found that recurrent negative thinking in mothers with GAD resulted in mothers being less responsive and engaged in interactions with their infants. In addition, these infants appeared to be withdrawn and were more likely to display lowered emotional tone. 75% of postpartum women with GAD also met criteria for depression.

Given the risks associated with PRD/AMD on the parent-child relationship, it is important to seek help and help families have access to infant mental health professionals who can address disruptions to the relationship.