Does Childhood trauma impact on cognitive performance in adulthood? : A comparative study between patients with First Episode of Psychosis (FEP), their siblings and healthy control subjects

Abstract

ABSTRACT : Several studies suggest that First Episode of Psychosis (FEP) patients show cognitive deficits and more trauma exposure than their siblings and healthy control subjects. However, literature about the influence of childhood trauma on cognition is scarce. In the present study, the impact of childhood trauma on cognitive domains (verbal memory, visual memory, processing speed, working memory, executive functions, motor dexterity and attention) and GCF (Global Cognition Functioning) has been explored in a sample formed by 51 FEP patients, their 68 siblings and 65 Healthy control (HC) subjects using a neuropsychological battery and Childhood Traumatic Events Scale (CTES). Results suggested no significant influences of childhood trauma on cognitive functioning by itself. However, it was found that childhood trauma exposure, along with the genetic vulnerability to FEP have a negative impact on attention, executive functions and GCF.