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Early-life stress and cognitive outcome
1Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA. dawson_hedges@byu.edu
Psychopharmacology
|November 26, 2010
Summary
Early-life stress is linked to cognitive deficits in both animals and humans. While these effects can persist, positive social factors may help reverse cognitive impairments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Early-life stress (ELS) is a known risk factor for neuropsychiatric disorders.
- While ELS impacts brain development, its specific effects on cognitive outcomes require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between ELS and cognitive function in animal models.
- To examine the link between ELS and cognitive outcomes in human studies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of animal models investigating ELS and cognition.
- Analysis of human studies examining ELS and cognitive performance.
Main Results:
- ELS is associated with cognitive dysfunction in both animal models and humans.
- Cognitive deficits in humans exposed to ELS may extend into early adulthood.
- Environmental enrichment and positive social interventions show potential to mitigate ELS-induced cognitive deficits.
Conclusions:
- ELS is associated with long-term cognitive impairments.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for developing interventions for individuals exposed to early adversity.
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