Pediatr. praxi. 2015;16(5):348-351

Relationship between infant excessive crying and family factors

PhDr.Lucie Sikorová, Ph.D., Mgr.Sandra Plačková

Ústav ošetřovatelství a porodní asistence, Lékařská fakulta, Ostravská univerzita v Ostravě

Excessive crying is a common problem in infancy which may influence the behavior of a mother or parents and the everyday life of the

whole family. Conversely, maternal psychosocial characteristics may have an impact on the baby’s behavior and acts. The aims of the study

were to determine the prevalence of excessive crying in selected pediatric practices and to ascertain whether there were associations

between infant excessive crying syndrome, family functioning and the mother’s psychosocial makeup (family functioning, depression,

anxiety, stress and self-confidence). The survey was performed using quantitative research with questionnaires. The set of questionnaires

consisted of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the Family APGAR Scale/Questionnaire.

According to Wessel’s criterion, a total of 17% babies with excessive crying were identified in the selected practices. A significantly

higher number of babies with excessive crying syndrome was associated with increases in family dysfunction (p < 0.001) and maternal

depression, anxiety and stress (p < 0.001). In a group of mothers with low self-confidence, there was also a higher proportion of babies

with excessive crying syndrome (p < 0.001).

Keywords: excessive crying, mother, depression, anxiety, stress, self-confidence

Published: December 1, 2015  Show citation