XVIII.-th International ISPPM Congress

Over the past few decades, research in the field of prenatal psychology and medicine has shown that the course is set for key patterns of experience and behaviour in the prenatal, perinatal and postnatal period. This research has taken an interdisciplinary approach at the various methodological levels of brain research, psychobiological development research, stress research, psychotherapeutic case studies and self-awareness; it has also been conducted at an empirical level by midwives, obstetricians, neonatologists, baby therapists and others in the way they deal with pregnancy and birth.

The unambiguousness of these research results calls for practical consequences to be drawn to refine the way in which we deal with pregnancy, birth and infancy. The ISPPM has thus addressed this topic at its most recent conferences: In 2006, a conference was held in Heidelberg on the causes of conflicts during pregnancy and the consequences that arise from them. An international congress in Moscow in 2007 examined the unborn child’s status in society. This led to a need to characterise the methodological levels in this field in more detail, thus paving the way for plans for a conference on early prevention, including the prenatal and perinatal period.

Leading representatives of this area of research and practice will be meeting at this conference in Heidelberg on 10–12 October 2008. The title “Prevention – Early Dialogue” highlights the significance for development of the interaction between mother, father and child from the prenatal period onwards. The latest research on this topic at the various methodological levels will be presented, ranging from research in the natural sciences to empathy-based and relationship-focused approaches.

The topic of the conference adds a decisive new dimension to current debate about postnatal prevention and improving parenting skills, a dimension whose key significance is now undisputed on the basis of the aforementioned research. Back in 2005, the ISPPM thus adopted a Charter on the Rights of the Child Before, During and After Birth. Ultimately, the aim is to promote society’s responsibility for the psychosocial dimension of the early stages of life.

This congress will allow participants to familiarise themselves with these fascinating new developments. At the same time, it will stimulate new ideas for practical applications in the participants’ own areas of work.

Rupert Linder and Ludwig Janus