Heart rate variability as a transdiagnostic marker of the subclinical stage of mental disorders associated with psychological maltreatment

Abstract

Relevance . Psychological maltreatment experienced in childhood and adolescence has been recognized as a risk factor for the development of various mental disorders, including subclinical forms. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, which is involved in responding to stressors. Changes in HRV have been observed in patients withmental disorders and those with a history of trauma. However, the significance of HRV parameters in assessing subclinical psychopathology in young adults who have experienced psychological maltreatment remains poorly understood. Intention . To examine heart rate variability as a transdiagnostic marker of the subclinical stage of mental disorders associated with psychological abuse experienced during childhood and adolescence. Methodology . The study sample comprised 280 individuals (mean age 18.81 years) who had experienced psychological abuse during childhood and adolescence and had no diagnosed mental disorders at the time of assessment. The study employed cardiorhythmography, standardized psychometric testing, and mathematical-statistical methods of data analysis. Results and discussion . Young adults exposed to psychological abuse demonstrated dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system characterized by predominance of sympathetic activity and reduced capacity for parasympathetic regulation. These alterations were directly associated with higher levels of subclinical psychopathological symptoms. Conclusion . HRV parameters may be considered transdiagnostic markers of subclinical manifestations of mental disorders, particularly in populations exposed to psychological abuse during childhood and adolescence.