| Description |
The Marschak Interaction Method (MIM) is a structured technique for observing and assessing the overall quality and nature of relationships between caregivers and child. It consists of a series of simple tasks designed to elicit behaviors in four primary dimensions in order to evaluate the caregivers’ capacity to:
Set limits and provide an appropriately ordered environment (Structure)
Engage the child in interaction while being attuned to the child’s state (Engagement)
Meet the child’s needs for attention, soothing and care (Nurture)
Support and encourage the child’s efforts to achieve at a developmentally appropriate level (Challenge)
And the child’s ability to respond to the caregivers’ efforts
The MIM takes from 30 to 60 minutes and is usually videotaped. There are sets of tasks designed to be used in each of four age groups: infant, toddler, pre-school/school age, and adolescent. Materials needed to perform the tasks are simple and readily available (such as blocks, squeaky toys, drawing paper)
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