Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Rapid Fractionation and Isolation of Whole Blood Components in Samples Obtained from a Community-based Setting
Published on: November 30, 2015
The interactive effects of elevated mid-afternoon cortisol and trauma history on PTSD symptoms in children: a
Katherine Bevans1, Arleen B Cerbone, Stacy Overstreet
1Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3535 Market St., Room 1584, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4399, USA. bevans@email.chop.edu
Abstract:
Given the alarming frequency and severity of trauma exposure among children, identifying contextual and biologic factors that increase risk for symptomatic responses to trauma is an essential step toward preventing psychopathology. Basal functioning of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis was evaluated to determine its role in relations between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms among 66 children (M age=10.7 years). Exposure to recent trauma (within the past year), previously experienced trauma (more than 1 year ago), and basal mid-afternoon cortisol levels were each positively related to PTSD symptoms. Further, these factors interacted in an additive manner to account for a significant proportion of the variance in PTSD symptoms. Implications for the early identification of children at risk for symptomatic responses to trauma are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Traumatic Memory
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia

