Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Rapid Fractionation and Isolation of Whole Blood Components in Samples Obtained from a Community-based Setting
11:31

Rapid Fractionation and Isolation of Whole Blood Components in Samples Obtained from a Community-based Setting

Published on: November 30, 2015

A.E. Bennett Research Award. Developmental traumatology. Part I: Biological stress systems

M D De Bellis1, A S Baum, B Birmaher

  • 1Developmental Traumatology Laboratory, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA 15213, USA.

Biological Psychiatry
|June 1, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Childhood trauma and PTSD are linked to altered stress hormone levels, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and cortisol. These biological changes correlate with symptom severity in maltreated children.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Neuroendocrinology
  • Trauma Studies

Background:

  • Investigated the link between child maltreatment, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and biological stress markers.
  • Compared prepubertal children with PTSD, overanxious disorder (OAD), and healthy controls.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the relationship between trauma, psychiatric symptoms, and urinary stress hormone excretion (cortisol and catecholamines) in children.
  • To understand the psychobiological impact of childhood maltreatment and PTSD.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive psychiatric and clinical assessments were performed.
  • Collected 24-hour urine samples to measure urinary free cortisol (UFC) and catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine).
  • Compared biological and clinical measures using analyses of variance.

Main Results:

  • Children with PTSD excreted significantly higher levels of urinary dopamine and norepinephrine compared to OAD and control groups.
  • Higher urinary epinephrine excretion was observed in maltreated children with PTSD versus OAD.
  • PTSD in childhood was associated with increased comorbid psychopathology, lower functioning, and suicidal ideation.
  • Urinary catecholamine and UFC concentrations positively correlated with trauma duration and PTSD symptom severity.

Conclusions:

  • Child maltreatment experiences are associated with significant alterations in biological stress systems in children with PTSD.
  • Findings suggest a psychobiological basis for trauma responses in childhood.
  • Improved understanding may lead to enhanced therapeutic interventions for childhood PTSD.
Abstract

More Related Videos

A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents06:15

A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents

Published on: July 10, 2017

Social Threat-Safety Test Uncovers Psychosocial Stress-Related Phenotypes05:03

Social Threat-Safety Test Uncovers Psychosocial Stress-Related Phenotypes

Published on: December 15, 2023

Related Concept Videos

Introduction to Biological Bases of Psychology01:30

Introduction to Biological Bases of Psychology

Biopsychology serves as a vital bridge connecting the intricate domains of biology and psychology, shedding light on how biological systems influence psychological phenomena. This field scrutinizes the biological substrates of behavior and mental processes, emphasizing the nervous system along with the roles of neurotransmitters, hormones, and genetics. It also incorporates evolutionary perspectives to explain the adaptive nature of mental functions.
The nervous system, the cornerstone of...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle01:27

Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle

Stress is a multifaceted response to events perceived as challenging or threatening, highlighting physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral reactions. Physically, stress can lead to fatigue, sleep disruptions, and various health issues such as frequent colds, chest pains, and nausea. Emotionally, it can manifest as anxiety, depression, irritability, and anger triggered by both minor and major life events. Cognitively, it may result in difficulty in concentration, memory, and...
Physiological Foundation of Stress01:24

Physiological Foundation of Stress

Stress triggers a coordinated physiological response involving the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This dual activation ensures that the body is prepared for both immediate and prolonged stress management. The process begins with the perception of a stressor. This initial phase activates the SNS, leading to the rapid release of adrenaline (epinephrine) from the adrenal glands.
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder01:27

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises following exposure to traumatic events such as natural disasters, forced displacement, or severe accidents. It significantly impairs individuals' ability to cope with daily activities and disrupts their emotional and psychological equilibrium.
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...