Final answer:
True. Early childhood trauma can inflict permanent personality scars that become points of vulnerability in old age.
Step-by-step explanation:
True. Early childhood trauma can inflict permanent personality scars that become points of vulnerability in old age. Infancy and early childhood is a time of rapid brain development and high vulnerability to damage. Traumatic experiences during this critical period can impact the development of the brain and personality, leading to long-lasting effects.
Research has shown that childhood abuse and trauma can have significant long-term consequences, such as increased risk of psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety, cognitive and social difficulties, and engagement in risky behaviors. These effects can persist into old age, making the individual more vulnerable to mental health issues and other challenges.
For example, a study conducted on rats demonstrated that negative early life experiences resulted in changes in the function of the amygdala, a brain region involved in emotional regulation, and increased the likelihood of depressive-like behaviors during adolescence. This suggests that early trauma can have lasting effects on brain function and behavior.