Early adversity, hypocortisolism, and behavior problems at school entry: A study of internationally adopted children.

ABSTRACT: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is influenced by early life adversity; however, less is known about the potential for recovery following marked improvements in care. The present study examined longitudinal changes in children's cortisol reactivity in the laboratory (4 assessments over 2 years) after adoption. Post-institutionalized (N=65) and post-foster care children (N=49) demonstrated blunted reactivity relative to non-adopted peers (N=53). Furthermore, post-institutionalized children exhibited no evidence of expected adaptation to repeated sessions in the 2 years following adoption. As evidenced by blunted cortisol reactivity, flatter diurnal slope, and lower home morning cortisol, we found support for hypocortisolism among children experiencing adverse early care. Hypoco

SUBMITTER: Koss KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4788556 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature