Effects of early intervention in children at risk: Short-term and long-term findings from an attachment-based intervention program

This article presents summary findings of an attachment-based early intervention program, the Ulm Model, in families at risk. Mother–infant pairs (N=113) received either the attachment-based intervention or treatment as usual. A significant increase in maternal sensitivity was seen immediately post-intervention for the highest-risk mothers in the intervention group; however, in a follow-up 8–22 months later (N=53), this effect was no longer evident. Cognitive development was assessed at follow-up as well. No correlation was found between cognitive development and the receipt of intervention services, but a correlation was found with the mother’s earlier levels of sensitivity and psychosocial stress.