Consequences of adversity on the development of attachment-related neuro transmitter systems: integrative review and analysis of Brazilian federal policies for early childhood

Abstract

Decades of research have shown that abuse and neglect in early childhood increase the probability of unhealthy and psychopathological outcomes in adulthood. However, mechanisms concerning mediator and moderator variables are not completely clear. Drawing from Bow|bys Attachment Theory and evolutionary-developmental models, this work aims to uncover the effects of gene-environment interactions in neurotransmitter systems related to attachment styles. It is hypothesized that early adversity affects the development of decision making, emotion regulation and social bonding behaviors in a lifelong perspective, due to phylogenetically and evolutionary causes. Using the integrative review method, literature on gene-environment interplay and attachment behavior is analysed, particularly experiments on genetic polymorphisms linked to dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin/vasopressin and opioid neurotransmitter systems. Results of experiments so far conducted are not straightforward, due mainly to design limitations and to the multilevel complexity between genetic polymorphisms and social behavior. However, research does provide good evidence on the importance and efficacy of early intervention. In an evidence- based policy perspective, it is claimed that Brazilian federal policies toward children have significantly advanced since 1988, but there is still much to be done. Neuroscientific, genetic and epigenetic studies may help to explain why changing earlyenvironments is so important and what are the most effective ways to do it, considering the existing political and institutional constraints and the dynamic reality of policy networks.