Effects of in utero drug exposure on children's development. Review and recommendations

J. Brooks-Gunn, C. McCarton and T. Hawley
Center for Young Children and Families, Teachers College, New York, NY.

Effects of in utero drug exposure on pregnancy outcome, infant development, and preschool functioning are reviewed. Six possible mechanisms underlying possible negative outcomes seen in children exposed to drugs in utero are considered. Recommendations and opportunities for future research focus on process-oriented assessments, methodological and procedural issues, research design, and interventions.