The Developmental Effects of Perinatal Stress and Their Role as Adaptive Modifications Changes in Cognitive, Physiological, and Behavioral Function

Date of Award

2003

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Natural Sciences

First Advisor

Beulig, Alfred

Keywords

Cortisol, Stress, Adaptation, Hippocampus, Limbic

Area of Concentration

Biology

Abstract

Over the last fifty years, the effects of stress on behavior and development have become a topic of serious research attention. The present review presents many of the known effects of stress on development, especially within the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, as well as the pathways and regulatory mechanisms of the stress response itself. Emphasis is placed on the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis, the primary system involved in the production of stress hormones, and the various paths by which it is stimulated. These pathways exert significant changes within individuals at any period of development, but have the most lasting effect when activated during perinatal periods. The most common developmental changes are related to hippocampal function, the regulation of stress hormones (glueocorticoid and catecholamines), sleep patterns, altered aggressiveness, dietary preferences, and social interactions. This review finds that, in most cases, it is possible to correlate the developmental changes seen in perinatally stressed individuals to behavioral and functional adaptations that allow greater likelihood of survival.

Rights

This bibliographic record is available under the Creative Commons CC0 public domain dedication. The New College of Florida, as creator of this bibliographic record, has waived all rights to it worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law.

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