Pilot family study on the intergenerational transmission of abuse

Research has shown that several types of abuse can be present within families
and are transmitted from generation to generation. It is not clear how and why
this transmission exists and which factors play a role in it. Is this mostly
through genes, or through interactions between family members, or a combination
or both? A family study can shed light on these factors. The feasibility of
such a study should first be examined.

The goal of this pilot family study is to test the feasibility of a family
study in which both genetic and behavioral measures are studied. We hope to
shed more light on the genetic factors and environmental influences that play a
role in the intergenerational transmission of abuse.

The study is a cross-sectional case-control family study. From each family 3
generations will be invited to take part in the study. Every member will be
invited to come a day to the lab of the LUMC. This will always be with multiple
family members, so that interactions between family members can also be tested.

The participants come to the lab once or twice for part of a day. This is a
moderate burden. They do this together with their family though, which might
make it a fun day with extra time and attention for each other. Most tasks and
questionnaires are not a burden and form no risk. Blood collection and the
questionnaires on abuse may be more of a burden. In contrast, interaction tasks
with family members are usually rated positively.
A part of the family members will also do one or two tasks in a MRI scanner,
This can be a burden, but is without risk. Participants can choose whether they
want to take part in this part of the study. This is also true for the home
interview; separate approval will be given for these study parts. The
participants get a small reward (40 euros) and a lunch.