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Published online 21 November 2005 | Nature | doi:10.1038/news051121-2

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Crammed orphanages have lasting effects

Neglected babies show depressed hormones for years.

Children who were seriously neglected in infancy can carry a physiological burden for years, even after moving to a loving environment. A study of their hormonal responses shows that their brains are less equipped to trust and form social bonds than other children.

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