A Theoretical Framework to Foster Parent-Infant Attachment during NICU Hospitalization through Music Therapy

Abstract

A premature birth and subsequent admission into the NICU is a uniquely stressful event in a family’s life. This hospitalization has effects on the infant’s developmental trajectory, the parents’ ability to provide cares for their infant, and the formation of secure attachment between the parents and the infant. Due to attachment’s impact on future development of the infant, it is necessary to consider the impact of hospitalization on the ability of the family unit to develop a secure attachment. Research discussing attachment and developmental needs of infants and their families is emerging and, currently, no music therapy literature exists that focuses on music intervention involving developmentally sensitive care and promoting secure attachment between parents and infants in the NICU. The purpose of this study was to create an evidence-based theoretical framework for a music intervention that can promote attachment between parents and an infant in the NICU. A review of literature and combination of the formal theories including transtheoretical model of behavior change, synactive theory of development, hierarchy of needs, and pediatric psychosocial preventative health model inform a moderated causal model that identifies important components of the attachment process between parents and infants in the NICU. A theoretical framework to foster parent-infant attachment during NICU hospitalization through music therapy is illustrated. Implications for clinical practice and future research are also discussed.