Differences in Cognitive Biases, Health Behaviors, and Hypochondriacal Tendencies in Adult Adoptees and Non-Adoptees

Indianapolis, IN

Adopted adolescents have a higher proportion of behavioral, emotional, and psychological problems in comparison to adolescent control groups (Simmel, Brooks, Barth, & Hinshaw, 2001). Although higher rates of depression and low self-esteem have also been reported in adult adoptees (Borders, Penny, & Portnoy 2000), adoption studies are largely based on adolescent/youth populations. In this ongoing study, adult adoptees and control adults completed an anonymous online survey that measured health behaviors, cognitive/perceptual biases, and hypochondriacal tendencies. Because health-related family information is not available to most adult adoptees, it is hypothesized that adoptees will be higher in health disorder symptoms (hypochondriacal tendencies, illness preoccupation), cognitive biases (intolerance of uncertainty, body vigilance), and health behaviors (diet, healthcare) in comparison to a control group of non-adopted individuals during young adulthood. This increased knowledge could provide evidence for more health-related supportive resources and services for adoptees as well as a better understanding of long-term impacts of adoption.