Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026
11:51
Combining Behavioral Endocrinology and Experimental Economics: Testosterone and Social Decision Making
Published on: March 2, 2011
15.8K
Prenatal Testosterone and Preschool Disruptive Behavior Disorders.
Bethan A Roberts1, Michelle M Martel1
1Psychology Department, University of New Orleans, 2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70148.
Personality and Individual Differences
|January 20, 2015
Summary
Prenatal testosterone exposure, indicated by finger length ratios, is linked to higher hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms in preschool girls with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This association was not found in boys, suggesting a potential sex-specific effect.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Child Psychiatry
Background:
- Disruptive Behavior Disorders (DBD), including Oppositional-Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), are common in early childhood and often present with a male predominance.
- Prenatal exposure to testosterone is hypothesized to influence the development of sex-biased behavioral conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between prenatal testosterone exposure and specific Disruptive Behavior Disorder symptom domains in preschool children.
- To explore potential sex differences in the relationship between prenatal testosterone and early-emerging DBDs.
Main Methods:
- The study included 109 preschool children (ages 3-6) and their caregivers.
- Prenatal testosterone exposure was indirectly measured using the 2D:4D digit ratio of the right hand.
- Caregivers and teachers completed standardized questionnaires assessing DBD symptoms, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between higher prenatal testosterone exposure (smaller right 2D:4D ratio) and increased hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms in girls.
- This association was not significant in boys, indicating a potential sex-specific effect.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal testosterone exposure may be a risk factor for developing hyperactive-impulsive Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder symptoms in preschool girls.
- These findings highlight the importance of considering prenatal hormonal influences in the etiology of early childhood disruptive behaviors, particularly in girls.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
1.4K
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
1.4K
01:28Conduct Disorder
970
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
970
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
1.5K
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
1.5K
01:26Testosterone: Functions and Regulation
3.6K
The intricate hormonal interplay essential for male reproductive health begins with the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by the hypothalamus. This hormone prompts the pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). LH targets the Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating them to produce and release testosterone. In concert with testosterone, FSH acts on the Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules to facilitate the release of...
3.6K
01:29Environmental Influences on Intelligence
1.2K
Despite the strong genetic influence on traits like intelligence, environmental factors significantly shape outcomes. For example, while over 90% of height variation is due to genetic differences, environmental factors such as nutrition also have a notable impact. Similarly, for intelligence, changes in a child's surroundings can significantly alter their IQ. Research shows that enriched environments boost children's academic success and help them develop key cognitive skills. Children...
1.2K
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
2.0K
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
2.0K