Abstract
Background
Infant negative emotionality (NE) may increase the risk of insecure-resistant attachment, particularly amid postpartum depression, but may also heighten receptivity to intervention. This secondary study tested whether infant NE moderates the effect of Circle of Security Parenting™ (COSP™) on infant–mother attachment.
Method
In a randomized trial (N = 297) involving dyads with maternal depression and/or infant social withdrawal, infant–mother attachment was assessed at 12–16 months; Infant NE was measured at 2–4 months.
Results
Higher infant NE increased the risk of insecure-resistant attachment. NE moderated intervention effects: COSP™ reduced insecure-resistant attachment among high-NE infants.
Discussion
Findings support a diathesis–stress framework: High-NE infants may be more vulnerable to caregiver strain but also more responsive to COSP™.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.govID: NCT02497677.