Toxic stress and protective factors in multi‐ethnic school age children: A research protocol

Abstract

Exposure to stressful environments in early childhood can cause a toxic stress response and lead to poor health outcomes, including obesity, cardiac disease, diabetes, and mental illness. In animals and maltreated children, the presence of a nurturing caregiver can buffer against the physiological disruptions associated with a toxic stress response; however, the specific caregiver and parenting characteristics that best promote a protective relationship in humans remain largely unexplored, particularly in families living in high-risk environments. In this study, framed in an ecobiodevelopmental (EBD) model, a cross-sectional design is being used to study 54 multi-ethnic, urban maternal-child dyads with children at early school age (4–9 years). Mothers’ past experiences, mental health, and caregiving patterns and children’s hair cortisol, C-reactive protein, pro-inflammatory cytokines, blood pressure, BMI, behavior, and school performance are being analyzed to identify maternal characteristics that may protect against children’s toxic stress response in families at high risk for exposure to stressors such as poverty, trauma, or exposure to violence.

Maternal Adverse Childhood Experiences, Family Strengths, and Chronic Stress in Children

“…In this study, we examine data drawn from a larger exploratory study designed to examine risk and protective factors for toxic stress among low-income, multiethnic families (Condon et al, 2018b). The purpose of the current study is to examine associations among past maternal experiences (ACEs and family strengths), current maternal PTSD symptoms, and child indicators of exposure to chronic stress in a multiethnic sample of mothers and children (4 to 9 years old; Figure 1).…”

“…The purpose of the current study is to examine associations among past maternal experiences (ACEs and family strengths), current maternal PTSD symptoms, and child indicators of exposure to chronic stress in a multiethnic sample of mothers and children (4 to 9 years old; Figure 1). Little is known about the extent to which maternal history influences children's development beyond the prenatal and infancy periods; thus, an examination of the early school age period may provide insight into the long-term effects of exposure to maternal ACEs and family strengths (Condon et al, 2018b). With this exploratory approach, our goal is to determine effect sizes and generate hypotheses that will inform future research studies on the intergenerational transmission of stress and protective factors among vulnerable families.…”

“…Others could not be reached (n = 13), declined to participate (n = 2), did not meet inclusion criteria (n = 7), or expressed interest, but never scheduled a visit (n = 7). For the complete study protocol, see Condon et al (2018b).…”

“…Hair samples were stored at room temperature and saliva samples were stored in a subzero freezer at < 20 degrees. See Condon et al (2018b) for more information on collection and storage procedures.…”

When Pandemics Collide: The Impact of COVID-19 on Childhood Obesity

“…Stress triggers activation of our body's stress response systems. “Toxic stress” ensues with prolonged activation of the stress response system with children experiencing stress that is strong, frequent, and protracted ( Condon, Sadler, & Mayes, 2018 ; Reichel, 2019 ; Shonkoff et al, 2012 ). Sustained activation of stress response systems can lead to chronic health issues, including obesity.…”