A preliminary study on the behavioral profile of Korean neonates

Abstract

This study assessed behavioral profile of 50 normal neonatal Korean infants in Daegu area using the NBAS. Being one of few studies on this topic, the study is to document and to accumulate data on the neonatal behaviors of Korean babies. Overall scores were at moderate levels in 6 clusters including Response Decrement, Social Interactive, Motor System, State Organization, and State Regulation. However, some parts of Motor System and State Organization of the subjects were at remarkably good levels. Autonomic Stability was relatively stable. Scores of Response Decrement and State Organization, as well as the scores of Motor System and Autonomic Stability showed positive correlation. Scores of State Organization, State Regulation, Cuddliness and the use of Hand-to-Mouth device indicate that Korean babies are agreeable and even tameable that is advantageous for attachment to caregiver. Full term neonates and their mothers with no abortion history have a higher score in Autonomic Stability, and neonates of working mothers have a higher Orientation score. All these imply that mothers` health and life style affect neonatal behavior performance.