B3090 - Epigenetics in peer victimization and behavioural and emotional development - 05/04/2018

B number: 
B3090
Principal applicant name: 
Matthew Suderman | Integrative Epidemiology Unit (UK)
Co-applicants: 
Rosa Mulder, MSc, Esther Walton
Title of project: 
Epigenetics in peer victimization and behavioural and emotional development
Proposal summary: 

Peer victimization is a widespread phenomenon with many harmful and persistent consequences, such as anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. However, consequences of can vary widely in presentation and severity, which hinders development of appropriate interventions targeted at alleviating the effects of peer victimization. This may in part stem from the fact that little is known about the biological mechanism through which bullying affects children's psychological development and wellbeing. Therefore, we aim to study how peer victimization is related to epigenetic development and explore to what extent epigenetics mediate the association between peer victimization and negative outcomes in children. We will do this by combining data of two large comparable cohorts, ALSPAC in England and Generation R in Holland.

Impact of research: 
Findings could offer novel insights into the role of epigenetics in bullying and child psychological outcomes.
Date proposal received: 
Monday, 26 March, 2018
Keywords: 
Mental health - Psychology, Psychiatry, Cognition, Behaviour - e.g. antisocial behaviour, risk behaviour, etc., Mental health, Computer simulations/modelling/algorithms, Childhood - childcare, childhood adversity, Epigenetics