Intimate partner violence is associated with increased maternal hair cortisol in mother–child dyads

Abstract Background The chronic consequences of intimate partner violence (IPV) on HPA activation are a topic of debate. The current study investigated hair cortisol concentrations in female victims of IPV and their children. Methods A total of 52 mother–child dyads were divided into two groups depending on exposure to IPV: IPV group (n = 27 dyads) and control group (n = 25 dyads). Hair cortisol concentration was measured in 1-cm-long hair strands, representing 30 days of exposure before assessment. PTSD and depression symptoms were assessed in the mother and child. Results Women reporting IPV presented with higher hair cortisol levels, depression and PTSD symptoms severity in comparison to…