Mother's depression at childbirth does not contribute to the effects of antenatal depression on neonate's behavioral development

► The development of depressed and non-depressed mother's neonates were evaluated. ► Neonatal behavior, preference and habituation to mother/stranger's face/voice were assessed. ► Depression before childbirth compromises the neonatal behavioral development. ► Depression at childbirth does not contribute to the effect of antenatal depression studied.