Effects of Childhood Experiences on Cortisol Levels in Depressed Adults

Abstract

To evaluate the impact of childhood abuse and parental bonding on cortisol levels in depressed adults. Mean afternoon cortisol levels were measured in 192 depressed adult patients at the beginning of a treatment trial. Childhood experiences of physical and sexual abuse were ascertained by interview, and perceived parenting by self-report. Maternal affectionless control, childhood sexual and physical abuse were all associated with cortisol levels. Childhood experiences, especially maternal affectionless control, appear to be related to hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis function in depressed adults.