Childhood Adversity and Hair Cortisol Concentration: A Systematic Review. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Grant, B.; Meyer, D.
• Is Part Of: Psychoneuroendocrinology. Volume 131(2021)Supplement
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Psychoneuroendocrinology -- Periodicals; Endocrinology -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Neuropsychoendocrinologie -- Périodiques; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105536
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4530

Abstract

Abstract : Background: The purpose of this systematic review is to provide an overview of existing literature surrounding childhood adversity and hair cortisol concentration. Methods: The authors utilized electronic databases of PsychInfo, PubMed, and MedLine. Keywords were "adverse childhood experiences" or "childhood adversity" or "childhood abuse" and "cortisol" or "hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis" or "hair cortisol". Inclusion criteria was publication between 2008-2021, adversities were self-report, quantitative data was obtained, and hair cortisol levels were measured. Results: Of the eight articles included, three examined this association in children and five examined the association in adults. Among children, major findings were increased levels of hair cortisol concentration. Among adults, three studies identified an association between childhood adversity and decreased hair cortisol concentration. Two studies did not report any significant associations. Conclusion: Further research is needed to establish a consistent association between childhood adversity and hair cortisol levels. Future directions include examining the difference between child and adult hair cortisol as well as the use of hair cortisol as an indicator for psychological treatment options.