Conflicts with the father and hostile behavior towards friends in youth can accelerate biological aging. This is the conclusion reached by psychologists from the University of Virginia (UVA). The study, which lasted 17 years and included 123 teenagers, showed that those who, at the age of 13-20, were often in strained relationships with their fathers and behaved aggressively with close friends, had an older biological profile by the age of 30. This is reported on the university's website.
To assess the body's condition, scientists used a complex indicator that includes cholesterol levels, blood pressure, sugar, inflammatory markers and proteins — one of the most accurate predictors of longevity and disease risk. And it was interpersonal conflicts, especially with fathers, that were most strongly associated with accelerated physiological "wear and tear."
According to the author of the study, Professor Joseph Allen, a conflict with a father can be perceived by a teenager as more intense and threatening than with a mother, which increases stress and affects the functioning of the cardiovascular and immune systems. Hostility towards friends at the age of 20 also had a significant impact, affecting biomarkers of aging years later.
Scientists emphasize that difficult relationships in adolescence are not just an emotional problem, but an important signal of risks to long—term health. The formation of a healthy family and friendly environment can play a much more important role in preventing premature aging than is commonly believed. lenta.ru.
