Final answer:
Bonding refers to the immediate emotional connection formed between parents and their newborn in the first hour after birth. It leads to a strong parent-infant bond, which is critical for the child's social and emotional development. Option C is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When teaching parents about their newborn, the nurse describes the development of a close emotional attraction to a newborn by the parents during the first 30 to 60 minutes after birth, which is called bonding. This term is used to describe the immediate connection that can form between the parents and the newborn. During this time, behaviors such as touching, holding, and gazing at the infant foster an emotional connection that supports the baby's social and emotional development, evidenced by foundational research from scientists such as Harry Harlow, John Bowlby, and Mary Ainsworth.
While attachment is also a closely related concept and describes the longer-term emotional relationship developed over time, bonding is specific to the early moments post-birth. It's important for the parents to be responsive to their newborn's physical, social, and emotional needs during this time for the healthy development of the parent-infant bond. Engaging in mutually enjoyable interactions also strengthens this bond considerably.