Using multiple methods to characterize the phenotype of individuals with a family history of major depressive disorder.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Unaffected relatives (URs) of individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) are biologically more vulnerable to depression. We compare healthy URs and controls at the level of phenotype (symptoms and functioning) and endophenotype (negative emotion bias), and further investigate the interrelation between these and the contribution of environmental early life stress.

Methods

URs (n=101), identified using Family History Screen interview methods and matched controls completed written and interview questions assessing symptoms of depression and anxiety, negative cognitive style, life functioning and early life stress. Biases in emotion processing were measured using a facial expression of emotion identification paradigm.

Results

Compared to controls, URs rep

SUBMITTER: Watters AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11889637 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature