A recent study from the University of Virginia reveals that aggression during adolescence can lead to accelerated biological aging later in life. The research, led by psychology professor Joseph Allen, found that 13-year-olds who exhibit hostility towards friends and experience strained relationships, particularly with their fathers, tend to show signs of aging by the time they reach 30.
The longitudinal study, which began in 1998, assessed 123 individuals along with their close friends and parents over a span of 17 years. Researchers monitored various health markers, including cholesterol levels, blood pressure, blood sugar, white blood cell counts, inflammation, and protein levels. According to Allen, these markers serve as reliable indicators of both lifespan and overall health.
In discussing the findings, Allen highlighted two key factors that correlate with accelerated aging: persistent conflict with fathers during late adolescence and ongoing hostile behavior towards friends throughout one’s twenties. He stated, “We find that between adolescence and adulthood, a couple of things correlate to this,” referencing the significant impact of these interpersonal dynamics.
The implications of this research extend beyond mere heart health, as Allen noted that hostile relationships can lead to a broader range of physiological deterioration. “What’s unique about this study is that it’s saying a person’s actual behavior toward other people, as reported by your friends, is predicting… how you are physiologically deteriorating faster than you should,” he explained.
The study included 46 males and 75 females, with findings applicable to both genders equally. Allen speculated on the relationship dynamics with fathers, suggesting that while mothers play a crucial role in shaping interpersonal templates, fathers may have a more pronounced effect on navigating the wider world. He remarked, “Conflict with fathers has much more potential to lead to more physically serious consequences.”
Allen also pointed out that the intensity of conflict with fathers often feels more significant to adolescents. “A father who is yelling is louder and more intimidating than a mother, and so it could be that the conflict with fathers just feels more intense to the adolescent,” he added.
Parents and guardians may underestimate the weight of adolescent friendships, often dismissing conflicts as trivial. Allen urged a reevaluation, saying, “These data suggest that instead of saying ‘That’s silly,’ in some sense the teenagers are right; the patterns they’re establishing are going to be quite important down the road.”
He emphasized that if a teenager shows signs of struggling in their relationships, particularly if they engage in hostile interactions, this should be regarded as a significant warning sign. “It’s not just about their mental health or how they’re getting along, but for their long-term development,” Allen concluded.
The full findings of this important study will be published later this month in the Journal of Health Psychology, shedding light on the long-term impacts of adolescent behavior on health outcomes.
