Cortisol and Behavioral Responses of Young Children in a Group of Unfamiliar Peers.

Abstract

novel playgroup of unfamiliar peers. Cortisol levels during the morning play session were compared with measures obtained at home. In the initial phases of the session, when responsive caregivers were attending to the children, Cortisol levels were lower than corresponding home measures. However, during the subsequent phase where children played and interacted without adult support, change in Cortisol concentrations departed from home baseline. Average Cortisol concentrations re mained stable rather than decreasing as in home. Λ marked absolute increase was observed for one third of the children. Two behaviors—self-centered and positive peer interaction—were reliable predictors of an increase in Cortisol during the chal lenging phase. Children showing an adrenocortical arousal before the challenging phase tended to develop a cautious attitude toward peers, monitoring them and avoiding social interaction. The dynamic relationships among initial adrenocortical reaction, subsequent behavior, and final Cortisol response are discussed.