Effects of Stress in Early Childhood

Chronic early stress has been linked to behavioral and emotional problems in childhood as well as mental and physical illness later in life.

Stress endangers young children's brain development. Persistent stress - sometimes called toxic stress - can interfere with the formation of the connections and networks that support thinking and learning. In extreme cases, it can result in permanent changes in the brain's size and structure.

Babies are affected by stress even in the protective environment of the womb. A mother's level of stress during pregnancy influences her baby's risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and other complications.

Positive parenting can protect children from the effects of stress. A healthy and secure relationship with parents and caregivers makes an infant feel protected and helps her feel safe in situations that would otherwise seem threatening. Sensitive caregiving allows infants and young children - even those exposed to prenatal stress - to develop healthy psychological and physical reactions to stress.

By contrast, children whose parents who show little affection and sensitivity are at risk for cognitive and behavioral problems. Infants of insensitive or intrusive mothers, for instance, are typically more fearful and less engaged. They have also been found to show measurable differences in cortisol levels and brain function.

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