Study: Adults who were abused during childhood show inflammatory responses to stress

Research from Brown University and Butler Hospital found that adults who were abused as children have elevated inflammatory responses to stress compared to kids who were not mistreated.

Studies show that increased inflammatory markers, such as cytokines, or proteins like interleukin-6 are found in the bloodstream when stressors were introduced to those who were mistreated during childhood. Experts say that adverse environments can create biological abnormalities in children, which can lead to depression and anxiety disorders.

The study focused on 69 adults between the ages of 18 and 60 who had their blood drawn during a stress test. Research revealed that 19 individuals who reported that they were moderately or severely neglected as children had increased levels of interleukin-6 in their bloodstream. Furthermore, the differences between those who were abused and individuals who were not became clearer as they recovered from the psychological exam.

Schools for troubled teens can help individuals who were mistreated as children succeed socially through comprehensive therapy programs that are designed to promote self-esteem and good decision-making.

A 2008 study by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 772,000 children were victims of maltreatment.