Excessive Neonatal Crying and Long-Term Psychological Outcomes: A Narrative Review Including Preterm Infants

Vollständiger Abstract

Worum geht es in dieser Arbeit?

Objectives : To evaluate key studies on excessive crying in neonates (0–28 days), including preterm infants, and its association with long-term psychological outcomes. Methods: A narrative review of literature from PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Embase (January 1960–July 2025) that identified studies on excessive crying (>3 hours/day, >3 days/week, or inconsolable crying) in neonates, with outcomes such as behavioral disorders, attachment issues, or neurodevelopmental delays. Study selection was based on scientific relevance and methodological importance rather than formal systematic review procedures. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included because they synthesize important evidence relevant to neonatal crying and developmental outcomes. Results: Available evidence indicates that excessive crying occurs in approximately 10–15% of term infants, whereas the prevalence among preterm neonates remains uncertain because neonatal-specific data are limited. Contributing factors included temperament, neurological immaturity, feeding difficulties, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) environmental stressors, painful procedures, and maternal depression. Outcomes included behavioral problems (odds ratio [OR] 2.0–3.0), insecure attachment (OR ≈ 1.5), and reduced Bayley Scales of Infant Development scores. However, the available evidence is heterogeneous in methodology and predominantly observational. Conclusion: Excessive neonatal crying is associated with increased psychological risks, particularly in preterm infants. Standardized longitudinal studies are needed to inform interventions in NICU and community settings, especially in resource-limited healthcare settings. Available evidence remains limited and predominantly observational, and current studies do not establish causality.