In this study is examined whether internationally adopted young adults (N = 146) show differences in physiological response in reaction to two different infant cry sounds, 500 Hz versus 900 Hz....Show moreIn this study is examined whether internationally adopted young adults (N = 146) show differences in physiological response in reaction to two different infant cry sounds, 500 Hz versus 900 Hz. There is also examined whether maternal sensitivity experienced in infancy and stressful life events at age 23, had influence on this physiological response. The adoptees were followed from infancy to the early adulthood. Maternal sensitivity was measured at 12, 18, and 30 months during different short tasks situations at the laboratory. The physiological response, pre-ejection period (PEP) and skin conductance, was measured with the VU-AMS during a cry task at age 23 in which three different frequencies cry sounds were presented. Stressful life events at age 23 were measured with a questionnaire consisting of 17 items. No differences were found between the physiological responses in reaction to infant cry sounds of 500 Hz versus 900 Hz. In addition maternal sensitivity and stressful life events did not influence the physiological responses in reaction to different infant cry sounds. These results suggest that adopted young adults do not react differently to infant cry sounds of 500 Hz than 900 Hz. Further research can investigate whether other factors, like attachment, may influence the physiological response to psychological stressors. Future research can also examine whether adoptees react differently to psychological stressors in comparison to an additional group.Show less
