Research Group on Experimental and Clinical Stress

R E S E A R C H  F O C U S

The main aim is to perform basic research and translational research related stress and sleep, their consequences for general health and disease – mental and physical. Negative stress exposure comprises prenatal stress, early life stress, stress in adolescence and adult life which may be acute or chronic or of more traumatic character. Negative stress is here defined as events which affects the individual’s stress-response system beyond normal regulation. For humans, the perception of coping and resources is of importance. Sleep is fundamental for human functioning, our emotional life, performance and health. A good night’s sleep is essential for good health, as stress exposure and sleep deprivation causes a wide range of negative health consequences. Specific research areas that are associated with negative stress and sleep disturbances are gastrointestinal disorders and disease, depression, anxiety, behavioral changes and changes within the brain. Research methods comprise experimental quantitative designs and range from animal models to psychological and clinical assessment of adults and children, with particular emphasis on early childhood experiences. We engage in both vulnerability factors and factors related to resilience.