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01-04-2013 | Geriatric Disorders (H Lavretsky, Section Editor)

The Long-Term Impact of Early Adversity on Late-Life Psychiatric Disorders

Authors: Anda Gershon, Keith Sudheimer, Rabindra Tirouvanziam, Leanne M. Williams, Ruth O’Hara

Published in: Current Psychiatry Reports | Issue 4/2013

Abstract

Early adversity is a strong and enduring predictor of psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse or dependence, and posttraumatic stress disorder. However, the mechanisms of this effect are not well understood. The purpose of this review is to summarize and integrate the current research knowledge pertaining to the long-term effects of early adversity on psychiatric disorders, particularly in late life. We explore definitional considerations including key dimensions of the experience such as type, severity, and timing of adversity relative to development. We then review the potential biological and environmental mediators and moderators of the relationships between early adversity and psychiatric disorders. We conclude with clinical implications, methodological challenges and suggestions for future research.

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Title: The Long-Term Impact of Early Adversity on Late-Life Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Anda Gershon
Keith Sudheimer
Rabindra Tirouvanziam
Leanne M. Williams
Ruth O’Hara
Publication date: 01-04-2013
Publisher: Current Science Inc.
Published in: Current Psychiatry Reports / Issue 4/2013
Print ISSN: 1523-3812
Electronic ISSN: 1535-1645
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-013-0352-9

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The Long-Term Impact of Early Adversity on Late-Life Psychiatric Disorders

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