A new study, recently co-authored by the Barcelona team and published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, explores the fascinating intersection of genetics and child mental health. Titled Exploring the Behavioral and Emotional Manifestation of Polygenic Risk for Psychiatric Disorders Among Schoolchildren, this research sheds light on how a child’s inherited genetic predispositions can manifest as observable behaviors and emotional patterns early in life.
For many complex psychiatric disorders, there isn’t a single “risk gene,” but rather a combination of thousands of small genetic variations, known as polygenic risk. The research team set out to understand how this cumulative genetic risk, which can be calculated using a polygenic risk score, connects to a child’s day-to-day life.
By studying a large group of schoolchildren, we were able to identify behavioral and emotional profiles that correlate with higher polygenic risk for psychiatric conditions. The findings offer a crucial piece of the puzzle, suggesting that these genetic risks aren’t just abstract concepts—they have tangible, observable impacts on a child’s development.
This work is a vital step toward a future where we can identify children who may be at higher genetic risk for mental health challenges and provide them with early, targeted support. By understanding these early signs, we hope to move from reactive treatment to proactive care, helping children and families navigate these challenges with greater support and resources.
You can read the full article here.
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