Does HPA-axis activity mediate the relationship between obstetric complications and externalizing behavior problems? The TRAILS study.
To examine whether HPA-axis activity mediates the relationship between obstetric complications (OCs) and externalizing behavior problems, and to investigate whether this model is different for boys and girls. In a population-based cohort of 1,768 10- to 12-year-old early adolescents, we assessed the cortisol awakening response and evening cortisol levels. Externalizing behavior problems were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist and the Youth Self-Report. OCs were retrospectively assessed in a parent interview. OCs significantly predicted externalizing behavior problems, but OCs did not predict HPA-axis activity. Thus, the mediation model was not supported. In addition to the relationship between HPA-axis activity and externalizing behavior problems, which is specific for girls, there is also a relationship between OCs and externalizing behavior problems. However, these two mechanisms are not related to each other indicating that HPA-axis activity is not a mediator in the relationship between OCs and externalizing behavior problems. Future research should focus on understanding the mechanism through which OCs cause externalizing behavior problems.
Marsman
Rianne
R
Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. R.Marsman@psy.umcn.nl
Rosmalen
Judith G M
JG
Oldehinkel
Albertine J
AJ
Ormel
Johan
J
Buitelaar
Jan K
JK
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002653:Child Behavior Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000032:analysis / Q000502:physiology; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D009426:Netherlands / Q000453:epidemiology; D010913:Pituitary-Adrenal System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D011297:Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012463:Saliva / Q000737:chemistry; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D006854:Hydrocortisone