Child Cognitive-Affective Resilience Following 13-11 Event : A Pluridisciplinary Study of Intergenerational Transmission of a Traumatic Event
The CARE 13-11 study investigates how significant traumatic events can impact not only those directly involved but also their families, potentially affecting future generations. Researchers are exploring how trauma might be passed down through families, both through biological changes and learned behaviours. This study brings together specialists from various fields, including brain science and social sciences, to get a full picture. It includes families directly affected by the 13-11 event, with children born before it, and also families who weren't exposed, to compare findings and better understand this complex issue. The goal is to learn more about how families adapt after such experiences.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The CARE 13-11 study is looking into something called "intergenerational trauma." This is a complex idea that suggests that the effects of a very stressful or traumatic event experienced by one generation can sometimes be passed down and affect future generations within the same family. It's not just about what people see or hear, but also about how their bodies and minds respond to stress, which might then be reflected in their children.
The researchers want to understand how these effects are passed on, whether it's through changes in our biology, like how our stress hormones work, or through behaviours and ways of coping that are learned within the family. This study is unique because it's bringing together different types of scientists – from those who study the brain to those who look at how society works – to get a complete picture of this fascinating and important topic.
To do this, they are looking at families where at least one parent was directly affected by a specific traumatic event that happened on November 13th, 2015. They are also including other family members like uncles, aunts, and cousins who were not directly there but had a close relative who was. To compare, they also have a "control group" of families who were not exposed to these events at all. By studying all these groups, they hope to get answers about how trauma affects families over time and across generations.
Key takeaways
- The study explores how traumatic events can affect families over generations.
- It combines different types of research, from brain scans to psychological assessments.
- Participation involves MRI scans, psychological tests, and stress hormone samples.
- Both families affected by trauma and those not affected are needed for comparison.
- The aim is to better understand trauma transmission to help future families.
- All participants must speak French fluently.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for several types of participants, all of whom need to speak French fluently. One main group includes children under 18 who were born before November 13th, 2015, and have at least one parent who was directly present during the traumatic event on that date.
For these children, their parents must give written permission for them to take part. The parents themselves, including those directly exposed and those who were not but whose partner was, can also participate. Additionally, some relatives like aunts, uncles, and cousins of directly affected individuals might be eligible if they meet specific criteria, such as not having been present at the event themselves but having a sibling or aunt/uncle who was.
There's also a comparison group of children who are the same age (under 18, born before November 13th, 2015) but whose family has no connection to the traumatic event. Their parents must also give written consent. The study team will check if you fit all the requirements before you can join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you a French speaker?
- Were you, or your child (if participating), born before November 13th, 2015?
- If you're in the 'exposed' group, was at least one parent directly affected by the 13-11 events?
- If you're in the 'unexposed' group, is your family completely unconnected to the 13-11 events?
- Are both parents willing to give written consent for their child to participate (if applicable)?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you and your child will likely have several assessments. These will include a special type of brain scan called an MRI, which uses magnetic fields to take pictures of the brain – it's completely safe and doesn't involve any radiation. You'll also complete psychological assessments, which are like questionnaires or interviews with a trained professional to understand your feelings and experiences. There will also be cognitive assessments, which are tests designed to look at memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Additionally, you might be asked to provide a cortisol sample. Cortisol is a stress hormone, and measuring it can usually be done through simple and painless methods like saliva or hair samples. The study will not involve taking any medication. The full duration of your participation will be explained to you by the study team, including how many visits or assessments you'll need to complete.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Umr-S 1077 NimhVerified postcodeCaen, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What does 'intergenerational trauma' mean?
It means the effects of a shock or very stressful experience can pass down from one generation to the next within a family, affecting how children and later family members respond to things.
Why are they studying children born before the event?
They are looking at children who were conceived and born before November 13th, 2015, to understand how their parents' experiences from that event might have affected them growing up.
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI is a type of scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, like your brain. It does not use radiation and is generally very safe.
Do I have to speak French to participate?
Yes, all participants in this study, including children and adults, need to have a good command of the French language.
What is the 'control group'?
The control group consists of families who were not exposed to the traumatic events. They are included so researchers can compare their results with those of the exposed families to see the specific effects of the trauma.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.