ABSTRACT

The Gusii in rural Kenya represent a particularly interesting community for the study of sensitivity, as they have previously been described as not showing sensitive care. This study focuses on the observation of sensitivity in seven families with a 7-to 23-month-old infant, with extensive naturalistic video observations (ca. 2–4 hours per infant) described qualitatively and quantitatively. Sensitivity ratings showed substantial individual variation, ranging from low (2) to high (8). Sensitivity was mostly expressed non-verbally in the form of (subtle) physical responsiveness by a variety of caregivers, and seen to a high extent during infant feeding. Insensitivity was seen when caregivers were occupied with chores, and during infant bathing. Both warmth and harshness were observed, but infrequently. Results are discussed in terms of the nature of sensitive caregiving among the Gusii, and factors that might explain within-group differences.

摘要

肯尼亚农村的 Gusii 代表了一个特别有趣的敏感性研究社区，因为他们以前被描述为没有表现出敏感的关怀。本研究侧重于对 7 至 23 个月大婴儿的七个家庭的敏感性观察，并通过定性和定量描述了广泛的自然主义视频观察（每个婴儿约 2-4 小时）。敏感性评级显示出很大的个体差异，从低 (2) 到高 (8)。敏感性主要以（微妙的）身体反应的形式由各种护理人员以非语言形式表达，并且在婴儿喂养期间高度可见。当照顾者忙于家务和婴儿洗澡时，他们会表现出不敏感。温暖和严厉都被观察到，但很少见。