Ontogeny of the social brain in utero and in infancy: risk factors and resilience in socioemotional development

Individual differences and early life experiences have a profound effect on later socioemotional functioning. Therefore, it is important to reflect on the emerging trends to understand the ontogeny of the social brain. Developmental trajectories are influenced by the interactive nature of individual variation in temperament and bio-behavioral development, environmental context and parent socialization processes. Research that integrates genetic and epigenetic antecedents to mental health will be highlighted, including those impacting emotional development. One novel component of this work is the study of social emotions such as empathy and jealousy. The ability of the parents to provide a supportive environment in which the infant can learn healthy relationship formation and retention skills will be underscored as the foundation of socioemotional adaptability for the dynamic social child. This review will highlight recent paradigms that inform an appreciation of the in utero and infancy periods that are foundational for social brain development.