Citation

Sánchez-Martín JR, Fano E, Ahedo L, Cardas J, Brain PF, Azpíroz A. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2000; 25(8): 773-783.

Affiliation

Area of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, University of the Basque Country, Av/Tolosa, 70., 20018, San Sebastian, Spain. pbpsamaj@ss.ehu.es

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10996473

Abstract

This study assessed potential relationships between a series of behavioral measures seen in the interactions of preschool children with their peers (particularly aggressive behavior) and testosterone levels. 28 boys and 20 girls of preschool age were videotaped in free play interactions. Their behavior was then evaluated with particular emphasis on aggression and affiliation in play and social interactions. Testosterone levels were measured using radioimmunoassay in saliva samples. Correlation analysis revealed a positive relationship in boys between testosterone and giving and receiving aggression in the context of 'social interactions' (serious aggression), but not in the context of play (playful aggresstion). Testosterone can be a useful biological marker for serious aggression (and behavioral patterns reflecting different levels of sociability) in preschool boys.

Language: en