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Abstract
Callous-unemotional (CU) traits (i.e., lack of remorse or guilt, callous lack of empathy, deficient concern for the feelings of others) in youth with conduct problems confer risk for a particular severe and persistent form of antisocial behaviour. Previous research has linked childhood maltreatment as a potential risk factor for CU traits, both primary (i.e., genetically underpinned) and secondary (i.e., environmentally influenced) variants, but the findings have been inconsistent, and the association has not yet been tested in a meta-analysis. To address this gap, we conducted a meta-analysis to assess the nature and strength of the associations between childhood maltreatment and its subtypes with CU traits and potential variants (i.e., primary and secondary CU traits). A systematic search identified 29 eligible studies including 9,894 participants (42% female) between the ages of 3 and 18 years (Mage=14.22 years, SD = 1.07). Results revealed a significant, moderate positive association between childhood maltreatment and CU traits. All subtypes of maltreatment bar sexual abuse were significantly associated with CU traits. However, it was not possible to compare primary and secondary CU traits directly due to inconsistencies in how they are defined. The limitations posed by current research signal the need for clinical and operational guidelines on how to define primary and secondary CU traits.
Additionally, prospective longitudinal, genetically informed research is needed to clarify if maltreatment is a causal risk factor for CU traits.
Additionally, prospective longitudinal, genetically informed research is needed to clarify if maltreatment is a causal risk factor for CU traits.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 105049 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews |
Volume | 146 |
Early online date | 19 Jan 2023 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 19 Jan 2023 |
Bibliographical note
Final Version of Record not yet available as of 27/01/2023.Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Keywords
- childhood maltreatment
- callous-unemotional traits
- conduct problems
- interpersonal trauma
- psychopathy
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Trait and State Impulsivity in Maltreated Children
Tino, P. (Co-Investigator) & De Brito, S. (Principal Investigator)
Economic & Social Research Council
4/12/21 → 2/12/25
Project: Research Councils