Criticizes Lester, Als, and Brazelton's 1982 reanalysis of data presented by Scanlon, Nelson, Grylack, and Smith in 1979. Discusses (1) clinical interpretation of the ponderal index (a weight-for-length ratio); and (2) inaccurate measurement of crown-heel length; (3) Lester et al.'s suggested relationship between the ponderal index, maternal drug,…

Replies to Scanlon's criticism of Lester, Als, and Brazelton's 1982 reanalysis of Scanlon, Nelson, Grylack, and Smith's 1979 data. Discusses the accuracy and interpretation of the ponderal index, reiterating that Lester et al. suggested a hypothesis, not a proof, that low birth weight, combined with maternal obstetric drugs, negatively affects…

Rejects the neuronal fatigue, or selective adaptation, hypothesis of young infant habituation. Holds that studies cited by Dannemiller and Banks do not support the inferences of selective adaptation. Rejects the hypothetical neurophysiological mechanism of neuronal fatigue. Proposes that studies do not indicate that young infants' visual cortical…

Describes the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale, which is used to assess infants' competence in organizing their states of consciousness, interactive capacities, physiological responses, and environmental responsiveness. Various projects which have used the scale are reported. The predictive value and clinical uses of the scale are…

Presents an account of the development and use of the Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS). Discusses ways in which NBAS has increased understanding of development in the newborn, of states of consciousness in the infant, of prediction in development, and of a clinician's opportunities to share information with parents. (BC)