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.
Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. R.Marsman@psy.umcn.nl
Rianne
R
Marsman
Judith G M
JG
Rosmalen
Albertine J
AJ
Oldehinkel
Johan
J
Ormel
Jan K
JK
Buitelaar
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