Does Infant Temperament Moderate the Relationship between Very Low Birth Weight and Behavioral Problems Over Six years?

Preterm birth and very low birth weight (VLBW; <1500 g) are associated with a greater risk for later child psychopathology. However, longitudinal studies on influencing factors and developmental precursors for behavioral problems in VLBW children are still scarce. This study investigates whether difficult infant temperament moderates the association between VLBW and internalizing symptoms, while controlling for family contextual factors. Data from N = 146 families (n = 75 VLBW and n = 71 term birth) were derived from the longitudinal HaFEn cohort study in Hamburg, Germany. Mothers reported on infant temperament at 12 months of age, and internalizing problems at 2.0, 4.4, and 8.0 years. Parental depressive symptoms and socioeconomic status (SES) were assessed shortly after birth. The results showed no moderating effect of infant difficultness on the association between VLBW and internalizing problems. However, difficult temperament was associated with higher levels of internalizing problems in both groups. Our findings highlight the relevance of considering infant temperamental predisposition in relation to later behavioral problems in general. Future research should further examine specific factors influencing mental health outcomes in VLBW children, such as parenting or SES.