Influence of exposure to perinatal distress during the COVID-19 pandemic on the neurodevelopment of young children

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the introduction of public health measures and the emergence of numerous concerns regarding health, economic uncertainty, and social life. These unusual circumstances have disrupted daily life and could have been sources of additional stress. Indeed, studies have shown an increase in the rate of psychological distress among pregnant people during the pandemic. It is known that the exposure of young children to this distress can be linked to numerous negative impacts such as the alteration of brain connections. However, few studies on perinatal distress have focused on both this alteration and its consequences on children's skills. Therefore, this research project aims to explore the potential relationships between exposure to perinatal distress during the pandemic, brain connections, and inhibition capacity in 2- and 3-year-old children. To do this, we will assess distress during pregnancy with questionnaires, brain connections with brain imaging techniques, and inhibition with a computer task designed as a game. In addition to providing a deeper understanding of the topic in the unique context of the COVID-19 pandemic, this project will contribute to the identification of different repercussions of exposure to perinatal distress on children's development and health. Ultimately, the new knowledge gathered can help guide health professionals towards prevention and treatment targets for pregnant people and children with problems related to brain development.