Maternal impression

Maternal Impression

Maternal impression (pronounced: məˈtərnəl ɪmˈprɛʃən) is a historical theory that suggests the mother's thoughts or experiences can directly influence the development and characteristics of her unborn child. The term originates from the Latin words "mater" meaning mother and "impressio" meaning impression.

History

The concept of maternal impression has been present in medical and popular beliefs since ancient times. It was widely accepted during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and persisted into the 19th and early 20th centuries. The theory was often used to explain birth defects or unusual characteristics in children.

Theory

According to the theory of maternal impression, a mother's emotional state, thoughts, or experiences could cause physical changes in the developing fetus. For example, if a pregnant woman experienced a strong fear or desire, it was believed that this could be 'imprinted' on the unborn child and affect its physical or mental development.

Criticism and Modern View

Modern genetics and embryology have largely discredited the theory of maternal impression. Today, it is understood that a child's characteristics are determined by the combination of its parents' genes, and that environmental factors during pregnancy can have an impact on the child's development, but not in the way suggested by the theory of maternal impression.

Related Terms

Teratology: The study of abnormalities of physiological development.
Epigenetics: The study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.
Prenatal Development: The process in which an embryo or fetus (or foetus) gestates during pregnancy, from fertilization until birth.

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Maternal impression