Tutorial 1 - Developmental Tutorial - Effect of Early Deprivation Flashcards
Why is early childhood considered critical for brain development?
Because of high plasticity and the significant impact of early life experiences on neural circuit formation.
How can environmental enrichment impact children who have experienced deprivation?
It can partially reverse negative effects, especially if the child is adopted into a nurturing environment, though full brain recovery is debated.
What brain regions are most affected by early deprivation according to prior studies?
Prefrontal cortex and temporal lobes, which are associated with cognitive and emotional functions.
What is a “sensitive period” in development?
A time in early childhood when the brain is particularly receptive to environmental input (positive or negative), which can shape long-term development.
Is there consensus on the reversibility of early deprivation effects?
No—some studies suggest lasting effects, while others argue that plasticity may allow for full recovery.
What are the main hypotheses of the study?
1) Early deprivation has long-lasting brain effects;
2) There are differences in total brain volume between Romanian and UK adoptees;
3) These differences are region-specific;
4) Brain changes may mediate cognitive/behavioral outcomes;
5) A dose-response relationship may exist.
What type of relationship do the researchers expect between duration of deprivation and brain alterations?
A dose-response relationship—longer deprivation leads to more severe effects.
What kind of study design was used?
Longitudinal natural experiment using historical events.
Who were the participants?
Romanian adoptees (who experienced early deprivation) and UK adoptees (non-deprived control group).
What kinds of data were collected?
MRI scans, IQ tests, neuropsychological assessments, and parent-completed questionnaires.
What statistical approach was used to understand the mechanisms?
Mediation analyses.
What was found regarding total brain volume in deprived individuals?
Significantly reduced total brain volume, even in adulthood.
Which brain areas showed the most pronounced structural changes?
Medial prefrontal cortex, inferior frontal, and inferior temporal regions.
What behavioral outcomes were associated with structural changes?
Lower IQ and increased ADHD symptoms.
What does the dose-response relationship indicate?
The longer the deprivation, the greater the brain volume reduction and behavioral impairments.
Did enriched environments fully reverse brain differences?
No—structural differences persisted into adulthood despite enriched environments
What is the main conclusion of the study?
Early deprivation has lasting, measurable effects on brain structure and cognitive/behavioral function, underscoring the importance of early intervention.
Why is this study important for understanding child development?
It links early adversity to long-term brain changes and highlights critical periods for effective intervention.
What are the key strengths of this research?
Longitudinal design, clear dose-response analysis, controls for confounds, and integration of imaging with behavioral data.
