Continuities and discontinuities in the development of 64 very small premature infants to 4 years of age.

The psychiatric, psychological, school and overall family functioning of 64 very small premature infants was assessed from birth up to 48 mnths of age. Results indicated that 43% of infants scored in the abnormal range on a behaviour rating scale filled in by the mothers and 24% on a teacher rating scale at age 4. However, only 11% of the children received a psychiatric diagnosis. Traditional attachment ratings at 1 yr were not related to psychiatric status at age 4, but family functioning was. Disturbed children had also suffered more perinatal difficulties.