Abstract

The purpose of this study was twofold. The first purpose was to develop an observational rating scale (Interaction Behavior Rating Scale) that would evaluate the nature of mother-child interaction under structured play situation. The scale was designed to focus on attachment behaviors for children between 12 months and 30 months of age and their mothers. The second purpose was to propose structured play activities. Items were developed through home observations and extensive literature review. IBRS consists of two subscales. One is attachment behavior rating scale for children and the other is attachment enhancing behavior rating scale for mothers. Participants were 100 experts in the field of mother-child interactions and attachment. Participants were asked to rate the appropriateness of each item that was developed. The two subscales were analyzed using factor analysis and Cronbach's alpha. The results of this study were the following: First, attachment behavior rating scale for children was composed of 19 items which had four factors; responsiveness, dependency, secure-base behavior, and affection. Cronbach's alpha of total items was .89. Second, attachment enhancing behavior rating scale for mothers was composed of 17 items which had three factors; affection, responsiveness, and sensitivity. Cronbach's alpha of total items was .90. In addition, 19 tasks that structure observation situation were selected.