Adjustment of Infancy

 

Introduction

            Infant remains secure in natural environment inside mother’s womb. The birth process is difficult and traumatic for the infant. Post birth the environment is entirely different that necessitates adjustment with the new environs which is colder, brighter, and louder, and where he or she will experience hunger and thirst. Adjustment and adaptation come with challenges with which infant has to deal with.

 

Adjustment Process

            Infants must make four major adjustments before they can resume their developmental progress. Failure to adjust with environment can be fatal. During the adjustment period the development and growth almost stops. Instead, the infant remains on a plateau or may even regress to a lower stage of development (Imbalife.com).

1.         Temperature Changes Adjustment – The difference between internal temperature (100 degrees F or 37.78 degree Celsius) and external temperature requires quick adjustment.

2.         Respiratory Adjustment – Prior to birth umbilical cord provides oxygen to baby but after birth when the umbilical cord is detached, the infants must begin to breathe. Delay can be fatal. 

3.         Elimination Adjustment – The infant’s elimination organs are required to start functioning soon after birth that helps in removal of waste from the body. Prior to the birth the waste were eliminated through umbilical cord.

4.         Nourishment Adjustment – Prior to birth umbilical cord provides nourishment to baby but after birth when the umbilical cord is detached, the infants get nourishment by sucking and swallowing. These reflexes are less developed at birth resulting in lesser nourishment than is needed which affects the weight.

 

Potential Implications of Adjustment Failure

 

            Post birth period is transitional period (13 days) where infant is highly vulnerable to following challenges: -

1.         For the first week after the birth infant tends to lose weight rapidly.

2.         Manifestation of differentiated and disorganized behavioural pattern for almost a week. It occurs due to disturbance in cranial circulation and body homeostasis.

3.         Chances of infection and organ failure.

4.         High infant mortality rate. The mother is the primary care giver hence, must be made aware of these issues beforehand so that she can deal with care. The family members must also be sensitive to her needs and make necessary arrangements to keep mother and child safe and healthy. 

 

References:

1.         NCERT, XI Psychology Text book.

2.         https://www.imbalife.com/major-adjustment-of-infancy-and-different-kinds-of-birth.

3.         https://opentextbc.ca/anatomyandphysiology/chapter/28-5-adjustments-of-the-infant-at-birth-and-postnatal-stages

 

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