Maternal distress is an influential factor for fetal development, including infant temperament. Infant temperament is important as a potential precursor for the development of child psychopathology. It is important to consider the psychosocial influences and context as it relates to maternal distress, particularly social disadvantage. Although the association of social disadvantage with maternal distress is documented, questions remain about the mechanisms through which risk factors (socioeconomic status area deprivation, subjective social status, perceived discrimination) influence distress and indirectly may influence offspring temperamental development.