The study investigated variation in infant behaviors and maternal responses among dyads with 18 handicapped and 18 normal infants. Mother-infant interaction sessions were videotaped and motor evaluations conducted. Data collected included behavioral ratings of infant affect and of infant looking patterns, ratings of maternal behavior in play with her child, and questionnaire responses regarding maternal depression. Results revealed that handicapped and nonhandicapped infants significantly differed from one another in the frequency and type of behaviors exhibited. Handicapped Ss demonstrated more negative affect and more looking away than did normal Ss in interaction with their mothers. The two groups of mothers were also significantly different in their interactive styles. Mothers of handicapped Ss received higher ratings in the amount of their interactive behavior but did not differ from mothers of normal Ss in the quality or appropriateness of behavior. The only infant characteristic associated with maternal interaction was neuromotor risk. However, when the influence of early intervention was considered, the type of intervention services received was significantly associated with mothers' interaction ratings. Finally, none of the infant characteristics measured was significantly associated with maternal depression scores. Sixteen pages of references are provided. Appendices include (1) measures (Parent Child Interaction Scale and others); and (2) conference presentations. (CL)