Narrative Review of Use and Continued Relevance of the Maternal Infant Responsiveness Instrument

Abstract

Background: The Maternal Infant Responsiveness Instrument (MIRI) was developed in 2002 to measure a critical aspect of maternal-infant health. The objective of this analysis was to examine use, results, and continued relevance of the MIRI 20 years after its creation.

Methods: For the completion of this narrative review, 5 electronic databases were accessed using key search terms. Inclusion criteria were English-language, peer-reviewed research using the MIRI. Hand searches of reference lists were conducted. Five authors performed screening, data extraction, appraisal, and summarized findings.

Results: Fifteen studies were included. All studies reported an internal consistency of α > 0.70 for the MIRI. Positive correlations were reported with self-efficacy, infant temperament, and life satisfaction. Inverse relationships were reported with stress, depression, and experiential avoidance. Depressive symptomatology, life satisfaction, self-esteem, self-efficacy, and previous childcare experience were predictors of maternal responsiveness.

Discussion: Maternal well-being (postpartum depression and stress) can affect maternal responsiveness. Given the pervasive disparities in maternal health and well-being, it is important to have reliable measures of the effects of those disparities. The MIRI, a valid and reliable measure, may be useful for assessing the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve infant and maternal well-being.