Articles related to Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Researchers identified regulatory variants affecting the X-linked gene MECP2 that may contribute to autism risk in males, offering a potential genetic explanation for part of the long-observed male predominance in autism spectrum disorder. Mutations associated with approximately 30% reductions in MECP2 expression produced autism-related phenotypes without causing classic Rett syndrome.

Six major US hospital systems have entered DOJ settlements involving pediatric gender-affirming care, resulting in service restrictions for patients under 19 and highlighting how federal enforcement activity can influence healthcare access beyond states with formal bans.

In a nationwide cohort of more than 2,700 U.S. children, parenting profiles characterized by higher positive engagement and stronger supervision were associated with fewer emotional and behavioral problems, while poorer supervision and inconsistent discipline were associated with greater symptom burden.

In a longitudinal analysis of more than 167,000 children in Wales, maternal depression was associated with higher rates of special educational needs and neurodevelopmental disorders. Additional risk observed among antidepressant-exposed pregnancies remained difficult to separate from underlying depression severity.

Baseline activity in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and right precuneus during working memory and emotion-regulation tasks was associated with depression severity one year later in young adults at elevated risk for affective disorders, but not with future mania symptoms.

A report examining a celebrity-backed sports prediction campaign highlights concerns about increasing youth exposure to gambling-related marketing. The article connects growing gambling participation among adolescents and young adults with evidence linking gambling disorder to adverse mental health outcomes, including suicidality.