The aim of the study was to examine the effects of maternal stress, oxytocin and cortisol in breast milk, and frequency of breastfeeding on infant temperamental traits (Fear Aversion, Negative...Show moreThe aim of the study was to examine the effects of maternal stress, oxytocin and cortisol in breast milk, and frequency of breastfeeding on infant temperamental traits (Fear Aversion, Negative Affectivity, Orienting/Regulation, Extraversion/Surgency). In the cross-sectional study, Polish mothers and their 4 months old infants (N-163) were tested in two different meetings. The mothers filled out EPDS, RLCQ, IBQ-R and a survey concerning their breastfeeding pattern. Furthermore, breast milk samples were collected to assess oxytocin, cortisol and energy levels in milk. The findings does not support the prediction that maternal stress influences infants’ temperamental traits. The results of the study indicated that oxytocin in mother’s milk was significantly associated with negative affectivity. However, no significant association was found between temperamental traits and cortisol. Moreover, nursing frequency was also significantly related to higher negative affectivity, however, the relationship is in the opposite direction of what is expected.Show less
