Little in Norway (LiN). A longitudinal population study of infant vulnerability and plasticity from pregnancy to age 18 months
Purpose: The study aims to analyze the interaction between environmental influences and genetic constitution across a broad spectrum of outcome measures. The study has the following sub-goals:
- Describe the different developmental pathways in infants.
- Map the occurrence of atypical development patterns and early psychopathology.
- Analyze the significance of risk factors related to parental stress, maternal nutrition during pregnancy, and interaction problems for children's development up to 18 months of age.
- Investigate the importance of differential vulnerability in children's early development.
Research Method: A prospective longitudinal design is used with five data collection points during pregnancy (16, 20, 26, 32, and 36 weeks) and four points after the children are born (6 weeks, 6, 12, and 18 months). Data is collected through direct behavioral observation, developmental testing of the children, and questionnaires filled out by the mothers and fathers. Data is entered into a secure zone at RBUP (Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare) using the Confirmit analysis tool.
Results: Data collection is ongoing, and results from this study have not yet been published.
Practical Significance and Research Implications:
The project will provide practical knowledge relevant to health station examinations of infants and assessment work related to child welfare and children's mental health. The research has implications for understanding how children can follow different developmental pathways, what factors are essential for how early developmental deviations can start and possibly be prevented, and how some children are more plastic than others, meaning they are more vulnerable to adverse environmental influences but can also benefit more from the arrangement of developmental-promoting conditions.
Project Duration:
Data collection will continue until the children have completed the 18-month examination during the fall of 2014. Subject to further funding, participants will be followed up at later ages. Data analysis will continue for an extended period.
Project facts
Name
Little in Norway (LiN). A longitudinal population study of infant vulnerability and plasticity from pregnancy to age 18 months
Status
CONCLUDED
Duration
01.09.10 - 31.12.14
