Publication
Title
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal reactivity in prepubertal children with social phobia
Author
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to investigate whether a different pattern of HPA axis activity is found between children with social phobia (SP) and healthy control children. Methods A total of 50 prepubertal subjects (25 children with SP and 25 healthy control subjects) were studied. The effects of stress were studied by comparing cortisol responses to a psychosocial stressor, consisting of a public speaking task. Results Children with SP showed an elevated cortisol response to the psychosocial stressor as compared with healthy controls. Trait but not state anxiety levels are associated with higher HPA axis activity. Limitations Limited sample size. Conclusions The results indicate that a higher cortisol responsivity to stress may be a neurobiological marker for prepubertal children with SP. Directions for future research and clinical implications are discussed.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Journal of affective disorders. - Amsterdam
Publication
Amsterdam : 2008
ISSN
0165-0327
DOI
10.1016/J.JAD.2008.03.006
Volume/pages
111 :2/3 (2008) , p. 281-290
ISI
000261273900019
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 07.01.2009
Last edited 28.11.2024
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