Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2026

The Trier Social Stress Test Protocol for Inducing Psychological Stress
Published on: October 19, 2011
Electrodermal reactivity during the Trier Social Stress Test for children: interaction between the serotonin
Renske Gilissen1, Marian J Bakermans-Kranenburg, Marinus H van Ijzendoorn
1Centre for Child & Family Studies, Leiden University, PO Box 9555, 2300 RB Leiden, the Netherlands.
Abstract:
This study explores the relation between variations in the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR; long vs. short allele), the child's attachment representation (assessed with the Attachment Story Completion Task, reflecting the security of the parent-child relationship), and electrodermal reactivity during a public speaking task, the Trier Social Stress Test for Children (TSST-C) in a sample of 92 7-year-old. Electrodermal reactivity during the TSST-C was not directly associated with variations in 5-HTT. However, there was a significant gene-environment interaction effect of 5-HTT and attachment security on electrodermal reactivity. Results are interpreted in terms of cumulative protection: Children with a secure attachment representation as well as long 5-HTT alleles appeared to be less stressed during the TSST-C.
Related Concept Videos
Socioemotional Development during Infancy
Primary Temperament Types
Stella Chess...
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Attachment
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Causes of Social Behavior III: Biological and Environmental Influences

