Lactation Consultant

Answer: D - The maternal-infant relationship and attachment can be assessed when the infant demonstrates reciprocity. Reciprocity occurs when the mother reacts to the infant and the infant relates back to the mother with a behavior such as sucking or cooing. Reciprocity, commitment, and proximity are signs of positive and successful maternal attachment. Fencing is a reflex like the Moro reflex, neither of which indicates the maternal-infant relationship. Sleepiness is related to fatigue and not an indication of the quality of this relationship.