BACKGROUND: Knowledge of genetic influences, on developmental disorders such as autism spectrum, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities, has increased the opportunities for understanding the influences of the early environment. METHODS: This paper provides a selective, narrative review for clinicians of the effects of factors such as exposure to toxins and stresses in utero and in postnatal life; brain injuries and perinatal compromise; neglect, malnutrition and selective food deficiencies. It also considers what is known about the mechanisms through which early adversities operate. RESULTS: Gaps in the research are identified and suggestions made about clinical investigations. Several types of environmental adversity have associations with later disorders that suggest a causal role. The effects are often on a broad range of psychological processes, and are not always quickly reversible. Several adversities often coexist, calling for skilled judgement about priorities in treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals vary considerably in their exposure to adversity and their vulnerability to its effects, and genetic inheritance can influence both.
BACKGROUND: Knowledge of genetic influences, on developmental disorders such as autism spectrum, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities, has increased the opportunities for understanding the influences of the early environment. METHODS: This paper provides a selective, narrative review for clinicians of the effects of factors such as exposure to toxins and stresses in utero and in postnatal life; brain injuries and perinatal compromise; neglect, malnutrition and selective food deficiencies. It also considers what is known about the mechanisms through which early adversities operate. RESULTS: Gaps in the research are identified and suggestions made about clinical investigations. Several types of environmental adversity have associations with later disorders that suggest a causal role. The effects are often on a broad range of psychological processes, and are not always quickly reversible. Several adversities often coexist, calling for skilled judgement about priorities in treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals vary considerably in their exposure to adversity and their vulnerability to its effects, and genetic inheritance can influence both.
Authors: James M Swanson; Marcel Kinsbourne; Joel Nigg; Bruce Lanphear; Gerry A Stefanatos; Nora Volkow; Eric Taylor; B J Casey; F Xavier Castellanos; Pathik D Wadhwa Journal: Neuropsychol Rev Date: 2007-03 Impact factor: 7.444
Authors: Suzanne E Stevens; Edmund J S Sonuga-Barke; Jana M Kreppner; Celia Beckett; Jenny Castle; Emma Colvert; Christine Groothues; Amanda Hawkins; Michael Rutter Journal: J Abnorm Child Psychol Date: 2007-10-27
Authors: Lidy M J Pelsser; Klaas Frankena; Jan Toorman; Huub F J Savelkoul; Rob Rodrigues Pereira; Jan K Buitelaar Journal: Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry Date: 2008-04-21 Impact factor: 4.785