Community Threat, Positive Parenting, and Accelerated Epigenetic Aging
Author Information
Author(s): Metrailer Georgette, Tavares Karina, Pault Mikayla Ver, Lopez Adamari, Denherder Shane, Valencia Everlyn Hernandez, DiMarzio Karissa, Highlander April, Merrill Sarah M., Rojo-Wissar Darlynn M., Parent Justin
Primary Institution: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Hypothesis
Positive parenting can buffer the effects of early life adversity on epigenetic aging.
Conclusion
Positive parenting slows down epigenetic aging in children living in low-threat communities.
Supporting Evidence
- Early Life Adversity is linked to faster epigenetic aging.
- Positive parenting may help mitigate the effects of Early Life Adversity.
- The study involved a diverse sample of children.
Takeaway
If kids have good parenting and live in safe neighborhoods, they grow up healthier and age slower inside their bodies.
Methodology
Data was collected from children aged 3 to 15, measuring parenting and community threat, and assessing epigenetic age.
Limitations
The study may not account for all variables affecting epigenetic aging.
Participant Demographics
49.7% female, 46.7% Black, 26.5% Hispanic, 19% White non-Hispanic.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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