Abstract
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.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 171-191 |
Number of pages | 21 |
Journal | Clinical Psychology Review |
Volume | 24 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - May 2004 |
Keywords
- Caregiving
- Cortisol
- Early experiences
- Health
- Stress
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry and Mental health