Samenvatting
Objective: The aims of the present study were to test the association between current anxiety problems and basal cortisol levels in a large population sample of young preadolescents, and to test if HPA-axis activity differs between individuals with no, only current, or persistent anxiety problems.
Method: Cortisol levels of 10- to 12-year olds (n = 1768) from the general population were measured on three time points during the day. A self-report questionnaire (RCADS) was used to assess current anxiety, a parent-report questionnaire (TPBQ) to assess anxiety problems at age 4.
Results: Associations between cortisol levels and current anxiety problems were not found. However, individuals with persistent anxiety problems had higher morning cortisol levels and a higher cortisol awakening response.
Conclusion: Apparently, only persistent, and not current, anxiety problems are associated with higher HPA-axis activity. Alterations in HPA-axis activity might underlie persistent anxiety problems, or result from the stress accompanied by persistent anxiety problems.
Originele taal-2 | English |
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Pagina's (van-tot) | 137-144 |
Aantal pagina's | 8 |
Tijdschrift | Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica |
Volume | 116 |
Nummer van het tijdschrift | 2 |
DOI's | |
Status | Published - aug.-2007 |