Binser, Martin J.; Spörrle, Matthias; Wolf, Sebastian; Försterling, Friedrich
(September 2004):
Sadder but fitter. The evolutionary function of depressive symptoms following fetal loss.
44. Kongress der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Psychologie, 26.-30.09.2004, Göttingen.
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Abstract
A literature review about an evolutionary model of fetal loss depression
is presented. This model conceptualizes depression following miscarriage
or stillbirth as an evolutionary protective mechanism to avoid
further fetal loss. It postulates that depressive symptoms delay the next
reproduction and save maternal resources. These symptoms along
with hypochondric symptoms of depression which lead to a search for
causes and reappraisal of environmental factors, are probably
adaptations to causes of further fetal loss (e.g. epidemics, famines,
infections, environmental toxins).