1
|
Helleman A, Rubin RT, Gardner W, Lourie A, Taylor AN, Cochran J, Dorn LD, Susman E, Barrowman N, Bijelić V, Leininger L, Pajer K. Circadian cortisol secretion in adolescent girls with conduct disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 148:105972. [PMID: 36462295 PMCID: PMC10038075 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Severe antisocial behavior in girls, best exemplified by conduct disorder (CD), is a serious clinical and public health problem. Treatment is difficult, particularly in girls with comorbid internalizing disorders. Identifying biological correlates may help to develop new treatments or diagnostic, prognostic, or treatment response biomarkers. Based on our earlier work and research from others occurring primarily in boys with severe antisocial behavior, it is possible that abnormalities in the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis circadian cortisol cycle may be associated with female CD. Additionally, research suggests that the presence of comorbid internalizing disorders may be related to differences in cortisol secretion, compared to subjects who only have CD. Our study aimed: 1) to compare the circadian cortisol cycle in 98 girls with CD, 15-16 years of age to 47 girls without any psychiatric disorder (ND) and 2) to compare the cycle in girls with CD and comorbid internalizing disorders (CD + INT) to those without such comorbidity (CD Only). Salivary cortisol was collected over 24 h during weekdays at scheduled times, with protocol adherence measures in place. Unstructured covariance pattern modeling, controlling for effects of age, social class, IQ, and awakening time was used to analyze cortisol data. CD was associated with overall lower cortisol secretion (p = 0.03), but this difference was due to a lower volume of cortisol secreted 30 min after awakening (area under the curve with respect to ground, p = 0.01). Circadian cortisol secretion was no different in the CD+INT group compared to the CD Only group (p = 0.52). Our findings need to be replicated using current consensus guidelines for the assessment of the CAR. We also suggest two new avenues of research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert T Rubin
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - William Gardner
- CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Department of Pediatrics, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andrea Lourie
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Department of Pediatrics, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anna N Taylor
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Department of Neurobiology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Justinn Cochran
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Department of Pediatrics, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lorah D Dorn
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Elizabeth Susman
- College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | | | - Vid Bijelić
- CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa Leininger
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Department of Pediatrics, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathleen Pajer
- CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Department of Pediatrics, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Relation between basal cortisol and reactivity cortisol with externalizing problems: A systematic review ✰. Physiol Behav 2020; 225:113088. [PMID: 32707158 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.113088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Delinquent behavior describes one of the most severe forms of antisocial and aggressive behavior, causing the highest mental health and public expenditures of problematic behavior in adolescence. Literature suggests that different concentrations of cortisol may serve as a biological marker for a severe antisocial subgroup of adolescents, although from the environmental risk factors that play a role in the development of severe delinquent and aggressive behavior, other neurobiological factors may be important. This review aims to analyze the association of cortisol levels with the development of delinquent behavior. Studies related to the topic were obtained from multiple databases, through rigorous exclusion and inclusion criteria. Only papers with empirical and quantitative methodologies from scientific and academic publications were included. Aims, methodological aspects (sample and instruments), and main conclusions were extracted from each study. Overall, the data suggest that regardless of the literature relating low cortisol levels to conduct problems and antisocial behavior, the lack of consensus in the examined studies demonstrates that more studies are needed to reveal the role of biosocial mechanisms in this hormonal-behavior link, and how these mechanisms are involved in establishing and maintaining delinquent behavior.
Collapse
|
3
|
Bakker-Huvenaars MJ, Greven CU, Herpers P, Wiegers E, Jansen A, van der Steen R, van Herwaarden AE, Baanders AN, Nijhof KS, Scheepers F, Rommelse N, Glennon JC, Buitelaar JK. Saliva oxytocin, cortisol, and testosterone levels in adolescent boys with autism spectrum disorder, oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder and typically developing individuals. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 30:87-101. [PMID: 30201120 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.07.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to compare levels of oxytocin, cortisol, and testosterone in adolescents with either autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)/conduct disorder (CD), and in typically developing individuals (TDI), and relate hormone levels to severity and subtype of aggression and callous-unemotional (CU) traits. Saliva concentrations of oxytocin, cortisol, and testosterone were assessed in 114 male participants (N = 49 ASD, N = 37 ODD/CD, N = 28 TDI,) aged 12-19 years (M = 15.4 years, SD = 1.9). The ASD and the ODD/CD groups had significantly lower levels of oxytocin than the TDI group, and the ODD/CD group had significantly higher levels of testosterone than the ASD group. There were no group effects on cortisol levels. Group differences remained for oxytocin after correcting for the influence of CU traits, but were not significant after controlling for aggression. Results for testosterone became non-significant after correction for either CU traits or aggression. Across groups, higher levels of CU traits were related to higher levels of cortisol and testosterone, however, proactive and reactive aggression were unrelated to all three hormonal levels. The current findings show that, regardless of cognitive ability or comorbid disorders, the diagnostic groups (ASD, ODD/CD) differ from each other by their hormonal levels, with the ASD group characterized by relative low level of oxytocin, and the ODD/CD group by a relative low level of oxytocin and high level of testosterone. These group effects were partly driven by differences in CU traits between the groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M J Bakker-Huvenaars
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - C U Greven
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; King's College London, Medical Research Council Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, UK
| | - P Herpers
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - E Wiegers
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A Jansen
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - R van der Steen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A E van Herwaarden
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A N Baanders
- Stichting Otto Gerhard Heldring, Zetten, The Netherlands
| | - K S Nijhof
- Pluryn, Hoenderloo, The Netherlands; Department of Developmental Psychopathology, Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - F Scheepers
- Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - N Rommelse
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J C Glennon
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J K Buitelaar
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
|
5
|
Fanti KA. Understanding heterogeneity in conduct disorder: A review of psychophysiological studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 91:4-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
6
|
Abraham E, Raz G, Zagoory-Sharon O, Feldman R. Empathy networks in the parental brain and their long-term effects on children's stress reactivity and behavior adaptation. Neuropsychologia 2018; 116:75-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2017.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
7
|
Experimental analysis of childhood psychopathology: A laboratory matching analysis of the behavior of children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). PSYCHOLOGICAL RECORD 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03395211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
8
|
Kamin HS, Kertes DA. Cortisol and DHEA in development and psychopathology. Horm Behav 2017; 89:69-85. [PMID: 27979632 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and cortisol are the most abundant hormones of the human fetal and adult adrenals released as end products of a tightly coordinated endocrine response to stress. Together, they mediate short- and long-term stress responses and enable physiological and behavioral adjustments necessary for maintaining homeostasis. Detrimental effects of chronic or repeated elevations in cortisol on behavioral and emotional health are well documented. Evidence for actions of DHEA that offset or oppose those of cortisol has stimulated interest in examining their levels as a ratio, as an alternate index of adrenocortical activity and the net effects of cortisol. Such research necessitates a thorough understanding of the co-actions of these hormones on physiological functioning and in association with developmental outcomes. This review addresses the state of the science in understanding the role of DHEA, cortisol, and their ratio in typical development and developmental psychopathology. A rationale for studying DHEA and cortisol in concert is supported by physiological data on the coordinated synthesis and release of these hormones in the adrenal and by their opposing physiological actions. We then present evidence that researching cortisol and DHEA necessitates a developmental perspective. Age-related changes in DHEA and cortisol are described from the perinatal period through adolescence, along with observed associations of these hormones with developmental psychopathology. Along the way, we identify several major knowledge gaps in the role of DHEA in modulating cortisol in typical development and developmental psychopathology with implications for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hayley S Kamin
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Darlene A Kertes
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; University of Florida Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Schoorl J, Rijn SV, Wied MD, van Goozen S, Swaab H. The role of anxiety in cortisol stress response and cortisol recovery in boys with oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2016; 73:217-223. [PMID: 27521740 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2016.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Children with antisocial and aggressive behaviors have been found to show abnormal neurobiological responses to stress, specifically impaired cortisol stress reactivity. The role of individual characteristics, such as comorbid anxiety, in the stress response is far less studied. Furthermore, this study extended previous studies in that not only baseline and reactivity to a psychosocial stressor were examined, but also recovery from a stressor. These three phases of cortisol could be impacted differentially in boys with oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder (ODD/CD) with (+ANX) and without anxiety (-ANX). The results revealed that cortisol patterns in response to psychosocial stress were different for boys with ODD/CD+ANX (n=32), ODD/CD-ANX (n=22) and non-clinical controls (NC) (n=34), with age range of 7.8-12.9 years. The ODD/CD-ANX group showed lower overall cortisol levels than the NC group. When considering the three phases of cortisol separately, the ODD/CD-ANX group had lower baseline cortisol levels relative to the other groups, whereas the ODD/CD+ANX showed an impaired cortisol recovery response. Within those with ODD/CD, callous-unemotional traits were predictive of high baseline cortisol levels. Also, anxiety predicted high baseline and recovery cortisol levels, whereas a high number of CD symptoms predicted reduced cortisol stress reactivity. These results clearly indicate that comorbid anxiety is an important factor in explaining differences in stress response profiles in boys with ODD/CD; although boys with CD/ODD are generally characterized by an impaired cortisol stress response, we found that those with comorbid anxiety showed impaired cortisol recovery, whereas those without anxiety showed reduced baseline cortisol levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jantiene Schoorl
- Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Studies, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300 RB Leiden, The Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Sophie van Rijn
- Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Studies, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300 RB Leiden, The Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Minet de Wied
- Department of Adolescent Development, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Stephanie van Goozen
- Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Studies, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300 RB Leiden, The Netherlands; School of Psychology, Cardiff University, P.O. Box 901, Cardiff CF10 3AT, United Kingdom
| | - Hanna Swaab
- Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Studies, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300 RB Leiden, The Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jimerson SR, Durbrow EH, Adam E, Gunnar M, Bozoky IK. Associations Among Academic Achievement, Attention, and Adrenocortical Reactivity in Caribbean Village Children. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0829573506298899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examined associations among academic achievement problems, attention problems, and cortisol levels in 86 children (ages 5 to 12) in St. Vincent, the West Indies. Findings revealed that morning cortisol levels were more elevated at school than at home. Attention problems contributed negatively to academic scores. Children with the most attention problems showed greater school relative to home cortisol elevations than did other children. Once the variance due to attention problems was accounted for, the interaction between attention problems and cortisol elevation explained additional variance in academic scores. There was some evidence that attention problems and cortisol reactivity were associated. Furthermore, greater cortisol reactivity was correlated with the academic difficulties of children who exhibited more attention problems.
Collapse
|
11
|
Adolescent Substance Use & Psychopathology: Interactive Effects of Cortisol Reactivity and Emotion Regulation. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2015; 40:368-380. [PMID: 27330232 DOI: 10.1007/s10608-015-9729-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
How are emotional processes associated with the increased rates of substance use and psychological disorders commonly observed during adolescence? An index of emotion-related physiological arousal-cortisol reactivity-and subjective emotion regulation have both been independently linked to substance use and psychological difficulties among youth. The current study (N = 134 adolescents) sought to elucidate the interactive effects of cortisol reactivity following a stressful parent-child interaction task and self-reported emotion regulation ability on adolescents' substance use and externalizing and internalizing behavior problems. Results revealed that adolescents with low levels of cortisol reactivity and high emotion regulation difficulties were more likely to use substances, and also had the highest parent-reported symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder. With respect to internalizing symptoms, high emotion-related physiological reactivity coupled with high emotion regulation difficulties were associated with higher self-reported major depression symptoms among youth. Findings reveal that different profiles of HPA axis arousal and emotion regulation are associated with substance use and symptoms of psychopathology among adolescents.
Collapse
|
12
|
Kobayashi H, Miyazaki Y. Distribution characteristics of salivary cortisol measurements in a healthy young male population. J Physiol Anthropol 2015; 34:30. [PMID: 26286592 PMCID: PMC4543482 DOI: 10.1186/s40101-015-0068-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Salivary cortisol has been used in various fields of science as a non-invasive biomarker of stress levels. This study offers the normative reference values of cortisol measurement for healthy young males. FINDINGS Salivary cortisol levels were measured in 267 healthy young males (age: 21.7 ± 1.5 years) in the early morning on two consecutive days and were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. Frequency distribution analysis was conducted with mean values of the measurements taken on the 2 days. The mean salivary cortisol level was 20.39 ± 7.74 nmol/l (median: 19.31 nmol/l). The skewness and kurtosis of the distribution of the raw data were 0.72 and 0.68, respectively. They were both improved by a square root transformation but not by a logarithmic transformation. CONCLUSIONS The skewness of the distribution for salivary cortisol measured in the early morning is considerably smaller than that previously reported from afternoon measurements. A "floor effect" may be an explanation for the difference in the distribution characteristics of salivary cortisol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiromitsu Kobayashi
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Yoshifumi Miyazaki
- Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The role of anxiety in the development, maintenance, and treatment of childhood aggression. Dev Psychopathol 2015; 26:1515-30. [PMID: 25422976 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579414001175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The majority of aggressive children exhibit symptoms of anxiety, yet none of our developmental models of aggression incorporate the role of anxiety, and our treatments ignore this comorbidity. This article outlines a novel theoretical model that specifies three hypotheses about comorbid anxious and aggressive children: (a) unpredictable parenting induces anxiety in children that in turn triggers aggressive behavior; (b) prolonged periods of anxiety deplete children's capacity to inhibit impulses and trigger bouts of aggression, and aggression in turn functions to regulate levels of anxiety; and (c) minor daily stressors give rise to anxiety while cognitive perseveration maintains anxious moods, increasingly disposing children to aggress. Little or no research has directly tested these hypotheses. Extant research and theory consistent with these claims are herein reviewed, and future research designs that can test them specifically are suggested. The clinical implications most relevant to the hypotheses are discussed, and to improve the efficacy of treatments for childhood aggression, it is proposed that anxiety may need to be the primary target of treatment.
Collapse
|
14
|
Lucas-Thompson RG, Lunkenheimer ES, Dumitrache A. Associations Between Marital Conflict and Adolescent Conflict Appraisals, Stress Physiology, and Mental Health. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY 2015; 46:379-393. [PMID: 26136117 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2015.1046179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The goal of the current study was to examine conflict appraisals and diurnal cortisol production as mediators of the robust association between marital conflict and adolescent adjustment problems. Parents reported their marital conflict and were observed engaging in a marital conflict discussion; they also reported adolescent internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Adolescents (n = 105, 52% female, 10-17 years of age) appraised their parents' marital conflict and reported their internalizing and externalizing behaviors. After the laboratory visit, adolescents provided four saliva samples on each of 2 consecutive days to assess diurnal cortisol production. More-negative marital conflict predicted more self-blame for parental conflict, which in turn predicted less robust decreases in cortisol across the day. Further, this flattened cortisol production pattern mediated the relationship between greater self-blame for parental conflict and adolescents' elevated internalizing behaviors. Feeling responsible for parental conflict appears to be particularly damaging in terms of physiological regulation and adjustment, and may therefore be a particularly useful intervention target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Erika S Lunkenheimer
- a Department of Human Development and Family Studies , Colorado State University
| | - Adina Dumitrache
- a Department of Human Development and Family Studies , Colorado State University
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
McGinnis EW, Lopez-Duran N, Martinez-Torteya C, Abelson JL, Muzik M. Cortisol Awakening Response and Internalizing Symptoms Across Childhood: Exploring the Role of Age and Externalizing Symptoms. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL DEVELOPMENT 2015; 40:289-295. [PMID: 27293303 DOI: 10.1177/0165025415590185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Efforts to identify biological correlates of internalizing symptoms in childhood have involved examinations of HPA-axis functioning, namely Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR). However, research has not assessed the relationship between CAR and internalizing problems among children younger than 8 years. Findings with older samples have been somewhat equivocal, perhaps due to high rates of co-occurring externalizing symptoms during childhood and/or due to age-related differences. This cross-sectional study examined CAR in an at-risk sample of children aged 22 months to 8 years at various levels of risk for internalizing symptoms. Internalizing symptoms were associated with blunted CAR, but only after controlling for externalizing problems. The relationship between CAR and internalizing symptoms disappeared with age. Results demonstrate that a negative association between CAR and internalizing exists during early childhood and illustrate the importance of accounting for comorbid externalizing disorders and developmental stage when assessing the HPA-internalizing link.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen W McGinnis
- University of Michigan - Psychology, 530 Church St, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Nestor Lopez-Duran
- University of Michigan - Psychology, 530 Church St, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | | | - James L Abelson
- University of Michigan - Psychiatry, Ann Arbor, United States
| | - Maria Muzik
- University of Michigan - Psychiatry, Ann Arbor, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kohrt BA, Hruschka DJ, Kohrt HE, Carrion VG, Waldman ID, Worthman CM. Child abuse, disruptive behavior disorders, depression, and salivary cortisol levels among institutionalized and community-residing boys in Mongolia. Asia Pac Psychiatry 2015; 7:7-19. [PMID: 24890783 DOI: 10.1111/appy.12141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity is related to childhood disruptive behavior disorders and to exposure to abuse and neglect. This study explores the relationship of diurnal salivary cortisol levels with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and caregiver attitudes toward physical punishment among boys in Mongolia. METHODS Salivary cortisol was collected in the home or institution 4 times daily for 4 days from 46 boys, aged 4-10 years, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Caregivers rated child disruptive behavior symptoms, attitudes toward physical punishment, and community violence exposures. Mixed effects models were used to estimate the association of psychopathology and caregiver attitudes with salivary cortisol levels. RESULTS Boys meeting criteria for ODD displayed consistently lower diurnal salivary cortisol levels compared to boys without ODD diagnoses. Controlling for ODD diagnosis, boys with depression showed higher cortisol levels throughout the day. No other diagnosis was associated with cortisol levels. Psychiatric diagnosis accounted for 17% of between individual variations in cortisol levels unexplained by the covariates. In a separate model, caregivers' beliefs regarding physical punishment accounted for 11% of between individual differences: boys with caregivers who stated physical punishment was necessary for discipline displayed hypocortisolism. Institutionalization did not associate with cortisol levels. DISCUSSION Salivary cortisol data from a non-Western naturalistic setting support an association of reduced basal HPA activity with disruptive behavior disorders and caregiver attitudes toward discipline. These findings suggest HPA functioning may be a reflection of or mediate disruptive behavior disorders in children across ethnic and cultural settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brandon A Kohrt
- Department of Anthropology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Albert D, Belsky DW, Crowley DM, Bates JE, Pettit GS, Lansford JE, Dick D, Dodge KA. Developmental mediation of genetic variation in response to the Fast Track prevention program. Dev Psychopathol 2015; 27:81-95. [PMID: 25640832 PMCID: PMC4465235 DOI: 10.1017/s095457941400131x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a developmental analysis of genetic moderation of the effect of the Fast Track intervention on adult externalizing psychopathology. The Fast Track intervention enrolled 891 children at high risk to develop externalizing behavior problems when they were in kindergarten. Half of the enrolled children were randomly assigned to receive 10 years of treatment, with a range of services and resources provided to the children and their families, and the other half to usual care (controls). We previously showed that the effect of the Fast Track intervention on participants' risk of externalizing psychopathology at age 25 years was moderated by a variant in the glucocorticoid receptor gene. Children who carried copies of the A allele of the single nucleotide polymorphism rs10482672 had the highest risk of externalizing psychopathology if they were in the control arm of the trial and the lowest risk of externalizing psychopathology if they were in the treatment arm. In this study, we test a developmental hypothesis about the origins of this for better and for worse Gene × Intervention interaction (G × I): that the observed G × I effect on adult psychopathology is mediated by the proximal impact of intervention on childhood externalizing problems and adolescent substance use and delinquency. We analyzed longitudinal data tracking the 270 European American children in the Fast Track randomized control trial with available genetic information (129 intervention children, 141 control group peers, 69% male) from kindergarten through age 25 years. Results show that the same pattern of for better and for worse susceptibility to intervention observed at the age 25 follow-up was evident already during childhood. At the elementary school follow-ups and at the middle/high school follow-ups, rs10482672 predicted better adjustment among children receiving the Fast Track intervention and worse adjustment among children in the control condition. In turn, these proximal G × I effects early in development mediated the ultimate G × I effect on externalizing psychopathology at age 25 years. We discuss the contribution of these findings to the growing literature on genetic susceptibility to environmental intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Albert
- Center for Child and Family Policy, Duke University
- Social Science Research Institute, Duke University
| | - Daniel W. Belsky
- Social Science Research Institute, Duke University
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center
| | | | - Conduct Problems Prevention Research Group
- The Conduct Problems Prevention Research Group includes (alphabetically): Karen L. Bierman, Ph.D., Pennsylvania State University; Kenneth A. Dodge, Ph.D., Duke University; Mark T. Greenberg, Ph.D., Pennsylvania State University; John E. Lochman, Ph.D., University of Alabama; Robert J. McMahon, Ph.D., Simon Fraser University and Child & Family Research Institute; and Ellen E. Pinderhughes, Ph.D., Tufts University
| | - John E. Bates
- Indiana University-Bloomington, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences
| | - Gregory S. Pettit
- Auburn University, Department of Human Development and Family Studies
| | - Jennifer E. Lansford
- Center for Child and Family Policy, Duke University
- Social Science Research Institute, Duke University
| | - Danielle Dick
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Albert D, Belsky DW, Crowley DM, Latendresse SJ, Aliev F, Riley B, Sun C, Dick DM, Dodge KA. Can Genetics Predict Response to Complex Behavioral Interventions? Evidence from a Genetic Analysis of the Fast Track Randomized Control Trial. JOURNAL OF POLICY ANALYSIS AND MANAGEMENT : [THE JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS AND MANAGEMENT] 2015; 34:497-518. [PMID: 26106668 PMCID: PMC4480598 DOI: 10.1002/pam.21811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Early interventions are a preferred method for addressing behavioral problems in high-risk children, but often have only modest effects. Identifying sources of variation in intervention effects can suggest means to improve efficiency. One potential source of such variation is the genome. We conducted a genetic analysis of the Fast Track randomized control trial, a 10-year-long intervention to prevent high-risk kindergarteners from developing adult externalizing problems including substance abuse and antisocial behavior. We tested whether variants of the glucocorticoid receptor gene NR3C1 were associated with differences in response to the Fast Track intervention. We found that in European-American children, a variant of NR3C1 identified by the single-nucleotide polymorphism rs10482672 was associated with increased risk for externalizing psychopathology in control group children and decreased risk for externalizing psychopathology in intervention group children. Variation in NR3C1 measured in this study was not associated with differential intervention response in African-American children. We discuss implications for efforts to prevent externalizing problems in high-risk children and for public policy in the genomic era.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Albert
- Center for Child and Family Policy at Duke University, Durham, NC 27708.
| | - Daniel W Belsky
- Social Science Research Institute at Duke University, Durham, NC 27708.
| | - D Max Crowley
- Center for Child and Family Policy at Duke University, Durham, NC 27708.
| | - Shawn J Latendresse
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Baylor University, Baylor Sciences Building, Waco, TX 76798.
| | - Fazil Aliev
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219, and Karabuk University, Turkey.
| | - Brien Riley
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219.
| | - Cuie Sun
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219.
| | - Danielle M Dick
- Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219.
| | - Kenneth A Dodge
- Center for Child and Family Policy, and Duke University, Durham, NC 27708.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hyde LW, Shaw DS, Hariri AR. Understanding Youth Antisocial Behavior Using Neuroscience through a Developmental Psychopathology Lens: Review, Integration, and Directions for Research. DEVELOPMENTAL REVIEW 2013; 33:10.1016/j.dr.2013.06.001. [PMID: 24273368 PMCID: PMC3834895 DOI: 10.1016/j.dr.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Youth antisocial behavior (AB) is an important public health concern impacting perpetrators, victims, and society. Functional neuroimaging is becoming a more common and useful modality for understanding neural correlates of youth AB. Although there has been a recent increase in neuroimaging studies of youth AB and corresponding theoretical articles on the neurobiology of AB, there has been little work critically examining the strengths and weaknesses of individual studies and using this knowledge to inform the design of future studies. Additionally, research on neuroimaging and youth AB has not been integrated within the broader framework of developmental psychopathology. Thus, this paper provides an in-depth review of the youth AB functional neuroimaging literature with the following goals: 1. to evaluate how this literature has informed our understanding of youth AB, 2. to evaluate current neuroimaging studies of youth AB from a developmental psychopathology perspective with a focus on integrating research from neuroscience and developmental psychopathology, as well as placing this research in the context of other related areas (e.g., psychopathy, molecular genetics), and 3. to examine strengths and weaknesses of neuroimaging and behavioral studies of youth AB to suggest how future studies can develop a more informed and integrated understanding of youth AB.
Collapse
|
20
|
Corominas M, Ramos-Quiroga JA, Ferrer M, Sáez-Francàs N, Palomar G, Bosch R, Casas M. Cortisol responses in children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a possible marker of inhibition deficits. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 4:63-75. [PMID: 22576746 DOI: 10.1007/s12402-012-0075-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 04/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a heterogeneous disease whose neurobiological background is not completely understood. It has been proposed that deficits of the inhibitory function with an underactive behavioral inhibition system (BIS) may be in the core of ADHD. In this regard, this review summarizes all studies that examine the involvement of cortisol in ADHD. Differences in cortisol responses from different ADHD subtypes, hyperactive/impulsive, inattentive, and combined, are analyzed. In addition, we examine the role of comorbidities as confounding factors in the study of cortisol in ADHD, including comorbid disruptive behavioral disorder (DBD), as well as anxiety and depressive disorders. Because ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition and approximately half of the children enter adulthood with the disorder, we review cortisol studies in adults and children separately. Two diverse patterns of cortisol have been reported both in children and adults with ADHD. Blunted cortisol responses to stress are associated with comorbid DBD, whereas high cortisol responses are associated to comorbid anxiety disorders. Nevertheless, the inhibitory deficits in ADHD do not appear to be related directly to cortisol deficits in either children or adults. This review increases our understanding of the heterogeneity of ADHD and could help in determining new strategies for the treatment of these patients. Future studies including gender and a more systematic methodology to study the cortisol response are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Corominas
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron (UAB), Escola d'Infermeria building 5th floor, Pg. Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kindergarten stressors and cumulative adrenocortical activation: the "first straws" of allostatic load? Dev Psychopathol 2012; 23:1089-106. [PMID: 22018083 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579411000514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Using an ethnically diverse longitudinal sample of 338 kindergarten children, this study examined the effects of cumulative contextual stressors on children's developing hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis regulation as an early life indicator of allostatic load. Chronic HPA axis regulation was assessed using cumulative, multiday measures of cortisol in both the fall and spring seasons of the kindergarten year. Hierarchical linear regression analyses revealed that contextual stressors related to ethnic minority status, socioeconomic status, and family adversity each uniquely predicted children's daily HPA activity and that some of those associations were curvilinear in conformation. Results showed that the quadratic, U-shaped influences of family socioeconomic status and family adversity operate in different directions to predict children's HPA axis regulation. Results further suggested that these associations differ for White and ethnic minority children. In total, this study revealed that early childhood experiences contribute to shifts in one of the principal neurobiological systems thought to generate allostatic load, confirming the importance of early prevention and intervention efforts. Moreover, findings suggested that analyses of allostatic load and developmental theories accounting for its accrual would benefit from an inclusion of curvilinear associations in tested predictive models.
Collapse
|
22
|
Associations between DSM-IV diagnosis, psychiatric symptoms and morning cortisol levels in a community sample of adolescents. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2012; 47:723-33. [PMID: 21476012 PMCID: PMC3328669 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-011-0374-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2010] [Accepted: 03/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis (HPA-axis) is implicated in a variety of psychiatric and emotional disorders. In this study, we explore the association between HPA-axis functioning, as measured by morning cortisol, and common psychiatric disorders and symptoms among a community sample of adolescents. METHOD Data from a cross-sectional school-based survey of 501 school pupils, aged 15, were used to establish the strength of association between salivary morning cortisol and both diagnosis of psychiatric disorders and a number of psychiatric symptoms, as measured via a computerised psychiatric interview. Analysis, conducted separately by gender, used multiple regressions, adjusting for relevant confounders. RESULTS With one exception (a positive association between conduct disorder symptoms and cortisol among females) there was no association between morning cortisol and psychiatric diagnosis or symptoms. However, there was a significant two-way interaction between gender and conduct symptoms, with females showing a positive and males a negative association between cortisol and conduct symptoms. A further three-way interaction showed that while the association between cortisol and conduct symptoms was negative among males with a few mood disorder symptoms, among females with many mood symptoms it was positive. CONCLUSIONS Except in relation to conduct symptoms, dysregulation of morning cortisol levels seems unrelated to any psychiatric disorder or symptoms. However, the relationship between cortisol and conduct symptoms is moderated by both gender and mood symptoms. Findings are compatible with the recent work suggesting research should concentrate on the moderated associations between gender, internalising and externalising symptoms and cortisol, rather than any simple relationship.
Collapse
|
23
|
Hazler RJ, Carney JV, Granger DA. Integrating Biological Measures Into the Study of Bullying. JOURNAL OF COUNSELING AND DEVELOPMENT 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/j.1556-6678.2006.tb00409.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
24
|
Schepis TS, Rao U, Yadav H, Adinoff B. The limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the development of alcohol use disorders in youth. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2011; 35:595-605. [PMID: 21223300 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2010.01380.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As the initiation and acceleration of alcohol use commonly occurs during adolescence, the etiological basis for this phenomenon is of critical importance. Using the diathesis-stress model as a framework, this review will evaluate the emerging evidence implicating the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (LHPA) axis in the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD). METHOD Searches were conducted of the PubMed/Medline, PsycInfo, PsycBooks, Cochrane and ISI Web of Science databases, using a specified set of search terms. RESULTS Genetic liabilities, antenatal stress/anxiety or exposure to addictive substances, exposure to maltreatment or other traumatic events in childhood and psychiatric illness in childhood/adolescence can all increase the risk, or diathesis, for AUD. Greater LHPA dysfunction may serve as a marker for higher diathesis levels in youth. When exposed to stressors in adolescence, high-risk youth (or those with greater LHPA dysfunction) may use alcohol and/or other substances to cope with stressors and, in turn, become more vulnerable to AUD. CONCLUSION Evidence suggests that LHPA dysfunction and stress play an important role in the development of AUD. Genetic liabilities, antenatal insults, maltreatment, and psychiatric illness appear to increase LHPA dysfunction, raising risk for AUD. Further research is needed to clarify the complex interplay among adverse developmental experiences, LHPA dysfunction, and the development of AUD in adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ty S Schepis
- Department of Psychology, Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Vloet TD, Herpertz-Dahlmann B. Die Bedeutung von Ängstlichkeit für die Phänotypisierung dissozialer Störungen des Kindes- und Jugendalters. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER-UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2011; 39:47-57. [DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917/a000083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In den letzten Jahren wurden vermehrt neurobiologische Marker dissozialen Verhaltens bei Kindern mit hohem Risiko für einen ungünstigen Verlauf (so genannter early-starter Subtyp der Conduct disorder, CD nach DSM-IV) identifiziert. Trotz einer Fokussierung auf diese Subpopulation innerhalb eines sehr heterogenen Störungsbildes liegen bisher widersprüchliche Befunde vor. Es deutet sich an, dass die zunehmenden methodischen Möglichkeiten der Untersuchung biologischer Marker eine detaillierte Phänotypisierung der untersuchten Stichproben notwendig macht. Die vorliegende Übersichtsarbeit betont die Berücksichtigung komorbider Ängstlichkeit als ein potenziell wichtiges Differenzierungsmerkmal, welches zu einer konsistenteren Befundlage vor allem im Bereich neuroendokriner Studien beitragen könnte. Möglicherweise bestehen darüber hinaus auch Assoziationen zu neurostrukturellen und neurofunktionellen Veränderungen des Gehirns. Es wird weiter der Einfluss des Merkmals Ängstlichkeit auf aggressives Verhalten sowie auf die Prognose der Betroffenen aufgezeigt. Eine detaillierte psychometrische und neurobiologische Charakterisierung könnte dazu beitragen, die an dissozialen Entwicklungen beteiligten neurobiologischen Mechanismen besser zu verstehen und die Effektivität derzeitiger therapeutische Optionen zu steigern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timo D. Vloet
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, Universitätsklinikum Aachen (Klinikleiterin: Univ.-Prof. B. Herpertz-Dahlmann)
- Lehr- und Forschungsgebiet Klinische Neuropsychologie des Kindes- und Jugendalters an der Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, Universitätsklinikum Aachen (Leiterin des Lehr- und Forschungsgebietes: Univ.-Prof. K. Konrad)
| | - Beate Herpertz-Dahlmann
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, Universitätsklinikum Aachen (Klinikleiterin: Univ.-Prof. B. Herpertz-Dahlmann)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tyrka AR, Kelly MM, Graber JA, DeRose L, Lee JK, Warren MP, Brooks-Gunn J. Behavioral adjustment in a community sample of boys: links with basal and stress-induced salivary cortisol concentrations. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2010; 35:1167-77. [PMID: 20223598 PMCID: PMC2922420 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2010.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2008] [Revised: 11/20/2009] [Accepted: 02/02/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis has been observed in association with internalizing symptoms and is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of depression and some anxiety disorders. This study examined basal and stress-induced cortisol concentrations in relation to internalizing and externalizing symptoms in a racially mixed community sample of 102 8-11-year-old boys. Afternoon basal cortisol concentrations were positively correlated with measures of internalizing behavior problems, social problems, and emotionality. Greater change in cortisol across a home-visit challenge task was also significantly associated with internalizing behaviors and social problems, as well as attention and thought problems. The implications of these findings and how they may relate to the pathogenesis of emotional and behavioral problems are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey R. Tyrka
- Mood Disorders Research Program and Laboratory for Clinical Neuroscience, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Address Correspondence to: Audrey R. Tyrka, M.D., Ph.D., Butler Hospital, 345 Blackstone Blvd., Providence, RI 02906. TEL: (401) 455-6520. FAX: (401) 455-6534.
| | - Megan M. Kelly
- Mood Disorders Research Program and Laboratory for Clinical Neuroscience, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Julia A. Graber
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Laura DeRose
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY
| | - Janet K. Lee
- Mood Disorders Research Program and Laboratory for Clinical Neuroscience, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI
| | | | - Jeanne Brooks-Gunn
- College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, NY, NY,National Center for Children and Families, Teachers College, Columbia University, NY, NY
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
van Honk J, Harmon-Jones E, Morgan BE, Schutter DJLG. Socially explosive minds: the triple imbalance hypothesis of reactive aggression. J Pers 2010; 78:67-94. [PMID: 20433613 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-6494.2009.00609.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The psychobiological basis of reactive aggression, a condition characterized by uncontrolled outbursts of socially violent behavior, is unclear. Nonetheless, several theoretical models have been proposed that may have complementary views about the psychobiological mechanisms involved. In this review, we attempt to unite these models and theorize further on the basis of recent data from psychological and neuroscientific research to propose a comprehensive neuro-evolutionary framework: The Triple Imbalance Hypothesis (TIH) of reactive aggression. According to this model, reactive aggression is essentially subcortically motivated by an imbalance in the levels of the steroid hormones cortisol and testosterone (Subcortical Imbalance Hypothesis). This imbalance not only sets a primal predisposition for social aggression, but also down-regulates cortical-subcortical communication (Cortical-Subcortical Imbalance Hypothesis), hence diminishing control by cortical regions that regulate socially aggressive inclinations. However, these bottom-up hormonally mediated imbalances can drive both instrumental and reactive social aggression. The TIH suggests that reactive aggression is differentiated from proactive aggression by low brain serotonergic function and that reactive aggression is associated with left-sided frontal brain asymmetry (Cortical Imbalance Hypothesis), especially observed when the individual is socially threatened or provoked. This triple biobehavioral imbalance mirrors an evolutionary relapse into violently aggressive motivational drives that are adaptive among many reptilian and mammalian species, but may have become socially maladaptive in modern humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack van Honk
- Department of Psychology, Experimental Psychology, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan2, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Susman EJ, Dockray S, Granger DA, Blades KT, Randazzo W, Heaton JA, Dorn LD. Cortisol and alpha amylase reactivity and timing of puberty: vulnerabilities for antisocial behaviour in young adolescents. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2010; 35:557-69. [PMID: 19819639 PMCID: PMC2843813 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2009.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2008] [Revised: 09/07/2009] [Accepted: 09/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The theoretical framework proposed that cortisol and saliva alpha amylase (sAA) reactivitiy are vulnerabilities for antisocial behaviour. These indices of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and sympathetic-adrenal-medulary (SAM) components of the stress system, respectively, were considered vulnerabilities that also interact with the putative stressful transition of timing of puberty to predispose adolescents toward antisocial behaviour. The sample consisted of 8- to-13-year-old boys and girls (N=135) and a parent. For boys, timing of puberty moderated the association between cortisol and sAA reactivity and antisocial behaviour. Higher cortisol reactivity in later timing boys was related to a composite index of antisocial behaviour and rule-breaking behaviour problems. In contrast, lower sAA reactivity and earlier timing of puberty in boys was related to rule breaking and conduct disorder symptoms. The interaction between timing of puberty and HPA or SAM regulation and timing of puberty in boys suggests that reproductive, neuroendocrine mechanisms may be involved in the extensively documented adverse consequences of off-time pubertal development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J. Susman
- Department of Biobehavioral Health The Pennsylvania State University 314 Health and Human Development East University Park, PA 16802 Office:(814) 863-2281 FAX: (814) 863-7525
| | - Samantha Dockray
- Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London 1-10 Torrington Place London WC1E 6BT Office+44 (0)20 7679 1805 Fax +44 (0)20 7813 0242
| | - Douglas A Granger
- Department of Biobehavioral Health The Pennsylvania State University 314 Health and Human Development East University Park, PA 16802
| | - Keeva T. Blades
- Department of Biobehavioral Health The Pennsylvania State University 314 Health and Human Development East University Park, PA 16802
| | - William Randazzo
- 387 Townhouse The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine/Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Jodi A. Heaton
- Department of Biobehavioral Health The Pennsylvania State University 314 Health and Human Development East University Park, PA 16802
| | - Lorah D. Dorn
- Division of Adolescent Medicine University of Cincinnati College of Medicine 3333 Burnet Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Poustka L, Maras A, Hohm E, Fellinger J, Holtmann M, Banaschewski T, Lewicka S, Schmidt MH, Esser G, Laucht M. Negative association between plasma cortisol levels and aggression in a high-risk community sample of adolescents. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2010; 117:621-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-010-0386-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2009] [Accepted: 02/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
30
|
Stadler C, Poustka F, Sterzer P. The heterogeneity of disruptive behavior disorders - implications for neurobiological research and treatment. Front Psychiatry 2010; 1:21. [PMID: 21423432 PMCID: PMC3059624 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2010.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 06/30/2010] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruptive behavior disorders (DBDs) are reflected by a great variety of symptoms ranging from impulsive-hot-tempered quarrels to purposeful and goal-directed acts of cruelty. A growing body of data indicates that there are neurobiological factors that increase the risk for developing DBDs. In this review, we give a broad overview of recent studies investigating physiological, neural, genetic factors, and specific neurotransmitter systems. We also discuss the impact of psychosocial risk and consider the effects of gene-environment interactions. Due to the heterogeneity of DBDs, it is concluded that specific subtypes of disruptive behavior should be considered both in terms their biological basis and in regard to specific treatment needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Stadler
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Obradović J, Bush NR, Stamperdahl J, Adler NE, Boyce WT. Biological sensitivity to context: the interactive effects of stress reactivity and family adversity on socioemotional behavior and school readiness. Child Dev 2010; 81:270-89. [PMID: 20331667 PMCID: PMC2846098 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8624.2009.01394.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 339] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the direct and interactive effects of stress reactivity and family adversity on socioemotional and cognitive development in three hundred and thirty-eight 5- to 6-year-old children. Neurobiological stress reactivity was measured as respiratory sinus arrhythmia and salivary cortisol responses to social, cognitive, sensory, and emotional challenges. Adaptation was assessed using child, parent, and teacher reports of externalizing symptoms, prosocial behaviors, school engagement, and academic competence. Results revealed significant interactions between reactivity and adversity. High stress reactivity was associated with more maladaptive outcomes in the context of high adversity but with better adaption in the context of low adversity. The findings corroborate a reconceptualization of stress reactivity as biological sensitivity to context by showing that high reactivity can both hinder and promote adaptive functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Obradović
- Stanford University, School of Education, Stanford, CA 94305-3096, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Roisman GI, Susman E, Barnett-Walker K, Booth-LaForce C, Owen MT, Belsky J, Bradley RH, Houts R, Steinberg L. Early family and child-care antecedents of awakening cortisol levels in adolescence. Child Dev 2009; 80:907-20. [PMID: 19489911 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8624.2009.01305.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study examined early observed parenting and child-care experiences in relation to functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis over the long term. Consistent with the attenuation hypothesis, individuals (n = 863) who experienced: (a) higher levels of maternal insensitivity and (b) more time in child-care centers in the first 3 years of life had lower awakening cortisol levels at age 15. Associations were small in magnitude. Nonetheless, results were (a) additive in that both higher levels of maternal insensitivity and more experience with center-based care uniquely (but not interactively) predicted lower awakening cortisol, (b) not accounted for by later caregiving experiences measured concurrently with awakening cortisol at age 15 or by early demographic variables, and (c) not moderated by sex or by difficult temperament.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glenn I Roisman
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 603 East Daniel Street, Champaign, IL 61820, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Locke RL, Davidson RJ, Kalin NH, Goldsmith HH. Children's context inappropriate anger and salivary cortisol. Dev Psychol 2009; 45:1284-97. [PMID: 19702392 PMCID: PMC2776065 DOI: 10.1037/a0015975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Some children show emotion that is not consistent with normative appraisal of the context and can therefore be defined as context inappropriate (CI). The authors used individual growth curve modeling and hierarchical multiple regression analyses to examine whether CI anger predicts differences in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, as manifest in salivary cortisol measures. About 23% of the 360 children (ages 6-10 years, primarily 7-8) showed at least 1 expression of CI anger in situations designed to elicit positive affect. Expression of anger across 2 positive assessments was less common (around 4%). CI anger predicted the hypothesized lower levels of cortisol beyond that attributed to context appropriate anger. Boys' CI anger predicted lower morning cortisol and flatter slopes. Results suggest that this novel approach to studying children's emotion across varying contexts can provide insight into affective style.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin L Locke
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, 285 Old Westport Road, North Dartmouth, MA 02747-2300, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Freitag CM, Hänig S, Palmason H, Meyer J, Wüst S, Seitz C. Cortisol awakening response in healthy children and children with ADHD: impact of comorbid disorders and psychosocial risk factors. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2009; 34:1019-28. [PMID: 19278790 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2009.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2008] [Revised: 01/29/2009] [Accepted: 01/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common child psychiatric disorders. Previous studies have reported a blunted cortisol response to challenging situations and a decreased cortisol awakening response (CAR) in children with ADHD. As ADHD often is comorbid with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD), or anxiety disorder (AnxD), and changes in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity have also been reported for these disorders, the present study aimed to compare the CAR in children with ADHD with and without comorbid disorders. Data on the CAR were obtained in 128 children with ADHD (aged 6-13 years) and in 96 control children (aged 6-12 years). Children with ADHD+ODD showed an attenuated CAR (area under the curve, AUC) compared to children with ADHD without ODD/CD and control children. Findings point towards either disinhibition or pervasive underarousal in children with ADHD+ODD, and seem to be specific for children with ADHD+ODD, as the attenuated CAR-AUC was not observed in children with ADHD without comorbid disorders or children with ADHD+CD or ADHD+AnxD. In addition, current adverse parenting conditions, family conflicts, and acute life events were associated with mean increase in CAR, emphasizing the role of psychosocial risk factors in mediating HPA axis activity in children with ADHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Freitag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Two different putative genetic animal models of childhood depression—A review. Prog Neurobiol 2009; 88:153-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2009.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2008] [Revised: 01/27/2009] [Accepted: 03/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
|
36
|
Terburg D, Morgan B, van Honk J. The testosterone-cortisol ratio: A hormonal marker for proneness to social aggression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW AND PSYCHIATRY 2009; 32:216-223. [PMID: 19446881 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2009.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Social aggression is an escalating hazard for individuals and society. It is most frequently observed as impulsive-reactive aggression in antisocial personality disorder (APD), but in psychopathic aggressive personalities instrumental social aggression is more prominent. However, the psychobiological mechanisms underlying human social aggression are still poorly understood. Here we propose a psychobiological mechanism that may explain human social aggression wherein the steroid hormones cortisol and testosterone play a critical role. High levels of testosterone and low levels of cortisol have been associated with social aggression in several species but it seems that in those individuals wherein these hormonal markers combine social aggression is most violent. In this review we discuss fundamental and clinical research which underscores the potential of the testosterone-cortisol ratio as a possible marker for criminal aggressive tendencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Terburg
- Department of Psychology, Experimental Psychology, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Two decades of research has implicated the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the development of antisocial behavior in children. However, findings regarding the association between cortisol and antisocial behavior have been largely inconsistent, and the role of the HPA axis in relation to broader etiological processes remains unclear. We examine evidence that the role of the HPA axis in the development of antisocial behavior may differ across subgroups of children. RECENT FINDINGS A meta-analysis has supported the prediction that low levels of cortisol are associated with risk for childhood antisocial behavior, but the relationship is weaker than previously assumed. Recent studies suggest the association between cortisol levels and antisocial behavior may vary depending on type of antisocial behavior, patterns of internalizing comorbidity, and early environmental adversity. The findings are consistent with evidence that two early-onset pathways to antisocial behavior can be distinguished based on the presence or absence of callous-unemotional traits. SUMMARY We speculate that early adversity is important to the development of chronic antisocial behavior in children with low levels of callous-unemotional traits and HPA-axis hyperactivity, but that high levels of callous-unemotional traits and HPA-axis hypoactivity characterize a particularly severe subgroup, for whom antisocial behavior develops somewhat independently of adversity.
Collapse
|
38
|
Adrenocortical Functioning in Boys with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Examining Subtypes of ADHD and Associated Comorbid Conditions. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2009; 37:565-78. [DOI: 10.1007/s10802-008-9292-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
39
|
Shirtcliff EA, Essex MJ. Concurrent and longitudinal associations of basal and diurnal cortisol with mental health symptoms in early adolescence. Dev Psychobiol 2008; 50:690-703. [PMID: 18726897 PMCID: PMC2660275 DOI: 10.1002/dev.20336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Recent biosocial theories postulate that both biological risk and the social context influence the development of mental health problems [Boyce and Ellis (2005) Development and Psychopathology, 17(2), 271-301]. Guided by this framework, we examined whether basal cortisol and its diurnal rhythm were associated with mental health symptoms in early adolescence. Because cross-sectional and longitudinal investigations sometimes reveal different cortisol-mental health associations, we examined the association both concurrently and longitudinally when children transition to middle school, a time which entails a major change in social context from single to multiple teachers, classrooms, and sets of classmates. Salivary cortisol was measured three times a day (waking, afternoon, and bedtime) across 3 days when adolescents were 5th graders. Mental health was measured when adolescents were in 5th and 7th grades, just before and after the transition to middle school. To deal with the substantial comorbidity of internalizing and externalizing symptoms at this developmental stage, mental health measures distinguished overall symptom severity from the preponderance of internalizing versus externalizing symptoms (i.e., directionality). A three-level Hierarchical Linear Model was used to extract basal cortisol and its diurnal rhythm separate from the day-to-day and within-the-day fluctuations in cortisol in response to daily experiences. Results were specific to symptom severity, suggesting that cortisol is a nonspecific risk factor for mental health symptoms in young adolescents. At 5th grade, low basal cortisol was associated with concurrent symptom severity. However, longitudinally, it was adolescents with high cortisol at 5th grade who were at risk for increasing mental health symptoms by 7th grade. Flat diurnal rhythms in 5th grade were related to levels of symptom severity at both 5th and 7th grades. Considering the change in social context, as defined by the transition to middle school, helped resolve seemingly inconsistent evidence that both hypo- and hyper-arousal were associated with mental health symptoms in early adolescence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Shirtcliff
- Department of Psychology, University of New Orleans, 2006 Geology/Psychology Bldg, New Orleans, LA 70148, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
AbstractA developmental approach to the classification of antisocial behavior is necessary for two reasons. First, although the continuity of antisocial behavior is strong for many individuals, the topography of antisocial behavior changes during the course of development. Second, antisocial behavior apparently develops in at least two separate pathways — child-onset versus adolescent-onset — that differ markedly regarding types of antisocial behavior displayed, persistence, and perhaps etiology. The development of antisocial behavior must also be understood within the context of co-occurring disorders and conditions. Comorbid attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder appears to be associated with greater aggression and a worse prognosis, and comorbid academic underachievement is also associated with a negative course. Emerging evidence also suggests that comorbid anxiety disorder is associated with level of aggression, but the direction of the correlation appears to differ at different ages. In all, full understanding of conduct disorder requires developmentally sensitive classification as well as consideration of comorbid conditions.
Collapse
|
41
|
How can the study of biological processes help design new interventions for children with severe antisocial behavior? Dev Psychopathol 2008; 20:941-73. [PMID: 18606039 DOI: 10.1017/s095457940800045x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Children with severe antisocial behavior have an increased risk of showing violently aggressive and other forms of problem behavior in adolescence and adulthood. It is well established that both biological and social factors are involved in the development of antisocial behavior. The primary aim of this paper is to discuss the evidence that specific neurobiological systems are involved in the etiology of childhood-onset antisocial behavior. These factors are responsible for the severity of the behavioral problems observed in antisocial children, but they also play a role in their persistence, because they influence children's interactions with their environment. We will discuss the possible causes of disruptions in neurobiological systems in childhood antisocial behavior and point out the implications of these findings for theory and clinical practice. We will argue that familial factors (e.g., genetic influences, early childhood adversity) are linked to negative behavioral outcomes (e.g., antisocial behavior problems) through the mediating and transactional interplay with neurobiological deficits. An investigation of neurobiological functioning in antisocial children might not only indicate which children are most likely to persist in engaging in severe antisocial behavior, but also guide the development of new interventions.
Collapse
|
42
|
Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal Axis Functioning in Reactive and Proactive Aggression in Children. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2008; 37:169-82. [DOI: 10.1007/s10802-008-9263-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
43
|
Pérez-Edgar K, Schmidt LA, Henderson HA, Schulkin J, Fox NA. Salivary cortisol levels and infant temperament shape developmental trajectories in boys at risk for behavioral maladjustment. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2008; 33:916-25. [PMID: 18650023 PMCID: PMC2596614 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2008.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2007] [Revised: 03/26/2008] [Accepted: 03/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Behavioral problems in young children can take on a variety of forms, which are linked to distinct antecedents and co-occurring markers. Internalizing difficulties in young children, for example, have been linked to individual differences in infant temperament and cortisol levels. In addition, there is growing evidence that these biobehavioral mechanisms are also shaped by gender. Four-year-old children participated in a study examining the relations between salivary cortisol and behavioral maladjustment as a function of gender and temperament. Both longitudinal (maternal report of infant temperament at 9 months) and concurrent (morning salivary cortisol at age 4) data were used to predict two forms of maladjustment: 'Withdrawal' (maternal report of internalizing behavior and laboratory observation of social reticence) and 'Acting Out' (maternal report of externalizing behavior and laboratory observation of solitary active play). High basal cortisol levels were strongly associated with Withdrawal in male participants. However, the relation was significant only in boys who exhibited high levels of negative temperament in infancy. There were no comparable findings with 'Acting Out' beyond a main effect of gender reflecting greater difficulty in boys. The data suggested that there are unique biobehavioral mechanisms shaping specific patterns of maladjustment in childhood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koraly Pérez-Edgar
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MS 3F5, Fairfax, VA 22030, United States.
| | - Louis A. Schmidt
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behavior, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jay Schulkin
- Departments of Physiology & Biophysics and Neuroscience, Center for Brain Basis of Cognition, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
| | - Nathan A. Fox
- Department of Human Development, University of Maryland, College Park, MD
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Fite PJ, Greening L, Stoppelbein L, Fabiano GA. Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Antisocial Process Screening Device With a Clinical Inpatient Population. Assessment 2008; 16:103-14. [DOI: 10.1177/1073191108319893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Research linking psychopathic tendencies to childhood behavior problems is predicated on the assumption that the findings are based on using psychometrically sound measures of psychopathic tendencies. Although evaluated with community samples, the psychometric properties of such measures have not been evaluated with inpatient clinical populations thereby limiting conclusions. Hence, the goal of the present study was to evaluate the factor structure of a widely used measure—the Antisocial Process Screening Device (APSD)—with an inpatient population. Parents of 328 children ( M age = 8.90 years) completed the APSD at the time of their child's admission for treatment. Although confirmatory factor analyses supported the three- and two-factor solutions proposed by the authors of the measure, the two-factor structure was more parsimonious. Factors of the two-factor model were also related to symptoms of childhood behavior disorders. The findings extend current research on the APSD's factor structure to an inpatient population.
Collapse
|
45
|
Marsman R, Swinkels SHN, Rosmalen JGM, Oldehinkel AJ, Ormel J, Buitelaar JK. HPA-axis activity and externalizing behavior problems in early adolescents from the general population: the role of comorbidity and gender The TRAILS study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2008; 33:789-98. [PMID: 18448258 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2008.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2007] [Revised: 03/10/2008] [Accepted: 03/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Contradictory findings on the relationship between hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)-axis activity and externalizing behavior problems could be due to studies not accounting for issues of comorbidity and gender. In a population-based cohort of 1768 (10- to 12-year-old) early adolescents, we used a person-oriented approach and a variable-oriented approach to investigate whether comorbidity with internalizing behavior problems and gender moderate the relationship between HPA-axis activity (cortisol awakening response and evening cortisol levels) and externalizing behavior problems. We found that: (1) in early adolescents with pure externalizing behavior problems, there was a particularly strong effect of gender, in that girls showed significantly higher total cortisol levels after awakening (AUC(G) levels) and a significantly higher cortisol awakening response (AUC(I) levels) than boys. (2) Girls with pure externalizing behavior problems showed a significantly higher cortisol awakening response (AUC(I) levels) than girls without behavior problems or girls with comorbid internalizing behavior problems. This effect was absent in boys. (3) Externalizing behavior problems, in contrast to internalizing behavior problems, were associated with higher evening cortisol levels. This effect might, however, result from girls with externalizing behavior problems showing the highest evening cortisol levels. Overall, we were unable to find the expected relationships between comorbidity and HPA-axis activity, and found girls with pure externalizing behavior problems to form a distinct group with regard to their HPA-axis activity. There is need for prospective longitudinal studies of externalizing behavior problems in boys and girls in relation to their HPA-axis activity. It would be useful to consider how other risk factors such as life events and family and parenting factors as well as genetic risks affect the complex relationship between externalizing behavior problems and HPA-axis activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rianne Marsman
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tout K, Haan M, Campbell EK, Gunnar MR. Social Behavior Correlates of Cortisol Activity in Child Care: Gender Differences and Time-of-Day Effects. Child Dev 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8624.1998.tb06209.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
47
|
|
48
|
Alink LRA, van Ijzendoorn MH, Bakermans-Kranenburg MJ, Mesman J, Juffer F, Koot HM. Cortisol and externalizing behavior in children and adolescents: Mixed meta-analytic evidence for the inverse relation of basal cortisol and cortisol reactivity with externalizing behavior. Dev Psychobiol 2008; 50:427-50. [PMID: 18551461 DOI: 10.1002/dev.20300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lenneke R A Alink
- Centre for Child and Family Studies, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9500, 2300 RB, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Hatzinger M, Brand S, Perren S, von Wyl A, von Klitzing K, Holsboer-Trachsler E. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) activity in kindergarten children: importance of gender and associations with behavioral/emotional difficulties. J Psychiatr Res 2007; 41:861-70. [PMID: 16979188 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2006.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2006] [Revised: 07/17/2006] [Accepted: 07/24/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The current cross-sectional study investigated basal and stress-challenged hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) system function in 102 five-year old kindergarten children (59 boys, 43 girls) who had been assessed by a comprehensive psychological and behavioral test battery. Baseline HPA system activity was significantly increased in girls when compared to boys (p<0.001). Furthermore, basal HPA system activity predicted a high hormonal release during stress with--again--girls showing higher hormonal responses than boys (p<0.01). Importantly, increased HPA system activity (baseline and stress-challenged) was significantly associated with hyperactivity/impulsivity and emotional problems in boys and with positive emotions in girls (p<0.05). These results suggest an occurrence of neurobiological alterations early in development. The observed neurobiological changes are gender specific already at the age of 5 years. Prospective long-term follow up of the identified subjects with HPA axis alterations will clarify if these markers are predictive for the onset of psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hatzinger
- Psychiatric University Clinics (UPK), Depression Research Unit, Wilhelm Klein-Str. 27, CH-4025 Basel, Switzerland.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Pajer KA. Cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescents: do negative emotions and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function play a role? Curr Opin Pediatr 2007; 19:559-64. [PMID: 17885475 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0b013e3282ef443a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Negative emotions such as depression and hostility/anger are important risk factors for cardiovascular disease in adults, but are often neglected in treatment or prevention programs. Adolescence is a stage of life when negative emotions often first become problematic and is also a time when the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease appears to accelerate. The literature on negative emotions and cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescents is reviewed here. RECENT FINDINGS Research indicates that negative emotions are associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescence. Negative emotions are also associated with several types of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation. Such dysregulation appears to have a facilitatory effect on cardiovascular disease development and progression in adults. Thus, it is possible that negative emotions in adolescents may be risk factors for the development of cardiovascular disease via dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Although this hypothesis has not been directly tested, some studies indirectly support the hypothesis. SUMMARY Negative emotions are associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescents; it is possible that hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation is an important mechanism. This hypothesis merits further research. If the hypothesis is valid, it has significant implications for early prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A Pajer
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbus Children's Research Institute, Ohio State University College of Medicine, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|