Sweating under pressure: skin conductance level reactivity moderates the association between peer victimization and
Kim D Gregson1, Kelly M Tu, Stephen A Erath
1Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Auburn University, AL, USA.
Summary
Individual differences in skin conductance level reactivity (SCLR) moderate the link between peer victimization and externalizing behavior. Lower SCLR amplified this association, suggesting targeted interventions for at-risk youth.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Childhood Behavior
- Adolescent Stress
Background:
- Peer victimization is linked to externalizing behaviors in children.
- Individual differences in physiological responses may influence this association.
- Skin conductance level reactivity (SCLR) is a measure of physiological arousal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if SCLR moderates the relationship between peer victimization and externalizing behavior.
- To explore the role of physiological stress response in peer-related behavioral outcomes.
Main Methods:
- 123 fifth and sixth graders (mean age 12.03) participated.
- SCLR was measured during a lab-based peer-evaluative stress task.
- Peer victimization, externalizing behavior, and SCLR were assessed.
Main Results:
- Self-reported peer victimization correlated with parent- and teacher-reported externalizing behavior.
- SCLR moderated this association: the link was stronger for those with lower SCLR.
- Higher SCLR buffered the association between peer victimization and externalizing behavior.
Conclusions:
- Lower SCLR may indicate vulnerability to peer victimization's impact on externalizing behavior.
- Interventions could focus on managing peer stress engagement and improving inhibitory control.
- Findings suggest pathways to reduce externalizing behavior in victimized youth.
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