Bio-behavioral Synchrony: A Model for Integrating Biological and Microsocial Behavioral Processes in the Study of Parenting

Abstract

A behavior-based neurobiological approach to the study of normative and high-risk parenting is presented and suggests that human affiliations are formed on the basis of bio-behavioral synchrony between the online physiological and behavioral processes of attachment partners. Theoretical foundations for the model ranging from neuroscience to phenomenology are discussed, and the unique expressions of micro-level synchrony are detailed across development. Specific disruptions to parameters of synchrony in various high-risk conditions and examples for time-locked processes of biology and behavior are described. Finally, implications of the findings to the implementation of specific interventions to mothers, fathers, and families are highlighted. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.