Aetiological influences on stability and change in emotional and behavioural problems across development: a systematic review

Hannigan, L.J. , Walaker, N., Waszczuk, M.A., McAdams, T.A. and Eley, T.C. (2017) Aetiological influences on stability and change in emotional and behavioural problems across development: a systematic review. Psychopathology Review, 4, pp. 52-108. (doi: 10.5127/pr.038315) (PMID:28337341) (PMCID:PMC5360234)

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Abstract

Emotional and behavioural problems in childhood and adolescence can be chronic and are predictive of future psychiatric problems. Understanding what factors drive the development and maintenance of these problems is therefore crucial. Longitudinal behavioural genetic studies using twin, sibling or adoption data can be used to explore the developmental aetiology of stability and change in childhood and adolescent psychopathology. We present a systematic review of longitudinal, behavioural genetic analyses of emotional and behavioural problems between ages 0 to 18 years. We identified 58 studies, of which 19 examined emotional problems, 30 examined behavioural problems, and 9 examined both. In the majority of studies, stability in emotional and behavioural problems was primarily genetically influenced. Stable environmental factors were also widely found, although these typically played a smaller role. Both genetic and environmental factors were involved in change across development. We discuss the findings in the context of the wider developmental literature and make recommendations for future research.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Hannigan, Dr Laurie
Authors: Hannigan, L.J., Walaker, N., Waszczuk, M.A., McAdams, T.A., and Eley, T.C.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Public Health
Journal Name:Psychopathology Review
Publisher:SAGE
ISSN:2051-8315
ISSN (Online):2051-8315
Published Online:21 May 2016

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