Early caregiving and physiological stress responses.
Inadequate early caregiving has been associated with risks of stress-related psychological and physical illness over the life span. Dysregulated physiological stress responses may represent a mechanism linking early caregiving to health outcomes. This paper reviews evidence linking early caregiving to physiological responses that can increase vulnerability to stress-related illness. A number of high-risk family characteristics, including high conflict, divorce, abuse, and parental psychopathology, are considered in the development of stress vulnerability. Three theoretical pathways linking caregiving to physiological stress responses are outlined: genetic, psychosocial, and cognitive-affective. Exciting preliminary evidence suggests that early caregiving can impact long-term physiological stress responses. Directions for future research in this area are suggested.
Luecken
Linda J
LJ
Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Box 871104, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA. Linda.Luecken@asu.edu
Lemery
Kathryn S
KS
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D004243:Divorce / Q000523:psychology; D005195:Family Relations; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000097:blood; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010287:Parent-Child Relations; D012307:Risk Factors; D013315:Stress, Psychological
D006854:Hydrocortisone