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Published on: July 10, 2017
Effects of childhood experiences on cortisol levels in depressed adults
Peter R Joyce1, Samantha A H Williamson, Janice M McKenzie
1Department of Psychological Medicine, Christchurch School of Medicine & Health Sciences, PO Box 4345, Christchurch, New Zealand. peter.joyce@chmeds.ac.nz
Objective:
To evaluate the impact of childhood abuse and parental bonding on cortisol levels in depressed adults.
Methods:
Mean afternoon cortisol levels were measured in 192 depressed adult patients at the beginning of a treatment trial. Childhood experiences of physical and sexual abuse were ascertained by interview, and perceived parenting by self-report.
Results:
Maternal affectionless control, childhood sexual and physical abuse were all associated with cortisol levels.
Conclusion:
Childhood experiences, especially maternal affectionless control, appear to be related to hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis function in depressed adults.
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