International Workshop

Since the founding of the ISPPM in 1971, a considerable amount of knowledge about the importance of the initial period of life in the womb and the transition to the outer world has been accumulated in the field of pre- and perinatal psychology and medicine. This knowledge can be
used to a great extent in helping people in later life to come to terms with burdens resulting from this earlier time. Knowing about these connections leads to a better understanding of physical and psychological processes of development and their disorders.

In the past years, the conferences have dealt, among others, with the deeper causes of conflicts during pregnancy, relevant fundaments of research (epigenetics) and methodological questions in prenatal psychology and the resultant means of prevention and treatment.

This time, on the occasion of almost 40 years’ existence of our society, there will be a review of achievements so far. Outstanding pioneers in our field of expertise have contributed fundamentally to its development. Their accomplishments are to be acknowledged. In present times, the readiness of the general public and professional circles to openly discuss our topics has greatly increased. Prenatal themes are no longer a matter for outsiders. Direct exchange with science is now possible and our findings confirmed by modern scientific methods. The national
and international intercommunication in our field of study continues to develop. Structures of common responsibility are being established in the sector of training, a framework programme for training in our field of expertise having already been developed. Initiatives have been announced at various political levels. The future possibilities and demands should be promoted by further development of our structure.

For this reason there will be an important general meeting in connection with our conference.

Rupert Linder