Abstract
Objectives: Cross-sectional studies provide evidence that cortisol secretion as a marker of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical axis activity (HPA AA) is related to psychological functioning and behavior. However, there are no studies of the stability of the HPA AA in pre-schoolers over the long-term. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate cortisol secretion in pre-schoolers longitudinally, and to predict psychological functioning12 months later. Method: 92 pre-schoolers (mean age: 5.4 years; 44% females) took part in a follow-up assessment 12 months after initial assessment. Cortisol secretion was assessed both at baseline (morning cortisol secretion) and under challenge conditions, and a thorough psychological assessment was included. Results: Increased cortisol secretion at the age of 5.4 years predicted increased cortisol secretion and psychological difficulties at the age of 6.4 years. Compared to boys, girls had higher cortisol secretion at both 5.4 and 6.4 years. Cross-sectionally, levels of cortisol secretion impacted differently on girls' and boys' behaviour. Conclusion: In pre-schoolers, HPA axis activity at the age of 5.4 years is stable over 12 months and is associated with psychological functioning. Pre-schoolers with higher cortisol levels are at increased risk of developing further psychological difficulties. Gender issues should be taken into account. This study was supported by Swiss National Science Foundation.
Published Version
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