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Human aggression and enumerative measures of immunity
D A Granger1, A Booth, D R Johnson
1Department of Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802, USA. dag11@psu.edu
Psychosomatic Medicine
|August 19, 2000
Summary
Aggressive behavior in men is positively linked to cellular immunity, specifically T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes. This association was observed independently of testosterone levels and other health factors.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Behavioral Science
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Individual differences in aggressive behavior may be linked to immunologic processes.
- Two models exist: positive association (adaptive immunity) and negative association (testosterone effects).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between aggressive behavior and immune function in men.
- To evaluate conflicting models of aggression-immunity association.
Main Methods:
- Enumerative measures of cellular and humoral immunity were assessed.
- Data collected from 4415 men aged 30-48 years via interviews and medical examinations.
Main Results:
- Positive, curvilinear associations found between aggressive behavior and T lymphocytes (helper/inducer, suppressor/cytolytic) and B lymphocytes.
- Relationship independent of testosterone, age, health status, and negative health behaviors.
- Strongest association observed with helper/inducer T cells.
Conclusions:
- Aggressive behavior in men is positively associated with cellular immunity measures.
- No negative association found between testosterone and immune measures.