Preventing infant mortality and morbidity: Developmental perspectives.

Developmental approaches to the etiology of low birthweight and to the design and evaluation of antenatal programs are reviewed. Examples are presented of interventions focusing on family planning, educational program content, modification of health-related behavior, and improvement of access to antenatal care. A Harlem Hospital program, designed to alter pregnant women's behavior, is discussed as an exemplar of possible collaboration among pediatricians, obstetricians, and developmentally oriented mental health professionals.