Relationship between Male Infants' Vocal Responses to Mother and Stranger at Three Months and Self-Reported Academic Attainment and Adjustment Measures in Adulthood

This study explored whether 3-mo.-old male infants' differential vocal response to mother vs a female stranger, which has been related to cognitive and academic functioning up to 12 years of age, is also related to adult development. Of the 12 subjects who had been seen from infancy through 12 years, 10 were located at Ages 21 and 28 years and were asked about their high school grade point average, scores on the SAT, years of schooling, emotional adjustment, substance abuse, and if they were in a stable relationship by the age 28. Responses showed 3-mo.-olds' differential vocal response was related positively to high school grade point average, scores on the SAT, years of completed education by age 28, and stability of relationship by age 28, and negatively related to substance abuse. No relationship was found between differential vocal response and reported emotional problems. Results suggest that early infant social interactions may be linked to adult development or adjustment.