The Association between Breastfeeding Exposure and Duration, Neuropsychological Deficits, and Psychopathic Personality Traits in Offspring: The Moderating Role of 5HTTLPR

• In Event: Biosocial Risk Factors and the Development of Criminality

Abstract

A body of research has revealed that a shorter duration of breastfeeding during infancy can increase the risk of various maladaptive traits, including neuropsychological deficits. Despite the number of studies that have been conducted on the topic, few studies have explored whether the effects of breastfeeding on neuropsychological functioning and personality features persist into adulthood. Furthermore, very little research to date has examined whether this relationship is moderated by specific indicators of genetic risk. In the current study, we explore whether no exposure to breastfeeding and short duration of breastfeeding significantly increase the risk of exhibiting neuropsychological deficits during adolescence and early adulthood as well as psychopathic personality traits during adulthood. Additionally, we examine whether a greater number of risk alleles on the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5HTTLPR) conditions the effect of breastfeeding experiences on neuropsychological deficits and psychopathy. We test these hypotheses by analyzing data from the National Longitudinal study of Adolescent Health. The results reveal some interesting findings concerning the interconnections among breastfeeding, genetic factors, and antisocial outcomes.

Authors

• Dylan Jackson, Florida State University

• Kevin M. Beaver, Florida State University