Private MD News

Cortisol levels may underlie children’s behavior

Category: Hormones and Metabolism

Cortisol testing may help parents understand how their children will react under stress, as a new study has shown that bold and impulsive youngsters are more likely to have low levels of the stress hormone when put in uncomfortable situations.

Researchers from the University of Rochester described children as either hawks or doves, the former being more likely to explore new environments and interact with unfamiliar people and objects, the latter clinging to their mothers and reacting fearfully to the unfamiliar.

After putting a group of children into unfamiliar and potentially stressful situations, the researchers administered cortisol tests to the participants. They found that more hawkish children had low levels of cortisol, while dove-like individuals had much higher concentrations of the hormone.

Each coping strategy came with its own set of behavioral and psychological advantages and risks. The researchers said that hawkish children were more prone to attention problems. Despite having not trouble paying attention, the more timid participants showed signs of future risk of anxiety and depression. These findings could help parents understand their children’s behavior and find them appropriate help.