Research on cognitive functioning, history of trauma and psychiatric symptoms in mothers of children and adolescent victims of maltreatment

• Grant number: 12/06750-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2012
• End date: December 31, 2012
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Sandra Scivoletto
• Grantee: Angélica Cristine da Silva
• Host Institution: Instituto de Psiquiatria Doutor Antonio Carlos Pacheco e Silva (IPq). Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da USP (HCFMUSP). Secretaria da Saúde (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The family is the basis of children´s protection and support. It is fundamental for the process of biopsychosocial development. However, many families may not fulfill this function, which triggers abuse and neglect of children. Given this reality, this study aims to investigate the cognitive functioning, history of trauma and psychiatric symptoms of mothers whose children suffered from situations of neglect and mistreatment. Thirty mothers of children and adolescents who are served by a program specialized in monitoring victims of maltreatment (The Equilibrium Project) will be part of the study. Some instruments will be used for psychiatric evaluation (Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview-MINI), cognitive evaluation (Vocabulary and Block Design subtests from WAIS-III to obtain the Estimated IQ), as well as evaluation of the history of lifetime stress (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire CTQ) and also an interview for socioeconomic characterization. A descriptive analysis of the results will be made to characterize the population. This study will collaborate to understand the phenomenon of family violence and thus, to the development of treatment strategies and public policies related to abuse in childhood and adolescence. (AU)