Theoretical and Empirical Underpinnings of Maternal Sensitivity: Considerations of Sensitivity Across Cultures and Socioeconomic Status

This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of maternal sensitivity and its predictors, along with the assumptions that explain its repercussions on child development and evidence of these relations. We first present the conceptual and operational definitions of maternal sensitivity espoused by Attachment Theory. Next, we summarize predictors of maternal sensitivity, emphasizing how maternal mental health issues and economic vulnerability can hinder mothers’ ability to sensitively respond to their infants. Finally, we discuss longitudinal studies and meta-analyses which show how maternal sensitivity predicts numerous domains of child development.