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Neurobiological stress responses predict aggression in boys with oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder: a

Jantiene Schoorl1,2, Sophie van Rijn3,4, Minet de Wied5

  • 1Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Studies, Leiden University, Wassenaarseweg 52, PO Box 9555, 2300 RB, Leiden, The Netherlands. j.schoorl@fsw.leidenuniv.nl.

European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
|February 10, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Parent training and child neurobiology predict reduced aggression in boys with conduct disorder. Higher cortisol reactivity and better recovery also indicate fewer aggressive behaviors over time.

Area of Science:

  • Child psychology
  • Neurobiology
  • Behavioral science

Background:

  • Antisocial and aggressive behaviors in children require understanding contributing factors for improved outcomes.
  • Identifying predictors of reduced problem behavior is crucial for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the predictive value of parent training, parenting practices, and child neurobiological function on aggression course.
  • To determine if child neurobiological factors offer unique prognostic value beyond parent training.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 64 boys (8-12 years) with oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder.
  • Data collection included parent training (Parent Management Training Oregon; PMTO), parenting practices, and child neurobiological measures (heart rate, cortisol) before and during follow-up.
  • Aggression ratings were collected at baseline, 6, and 12 months.

Main Results:

  • Parent training predicted significant declines in aggression at 6 and 12 months.
  • Higher cortisol stress reactivity and better cortisol recovery in children also predicted reduced aggression.
  • Heart rate and parenting practices did not show a relationship with the course of aggression.

Conclusions:

  • Child neurobiological factors, specifically cortisol stress reactivity and recovery, can predict aggression changes in boys with ODD/CD.
  • These neurobiological markers possess unique prognostic value independent of parent training effects.
  • Findings highlight the importance of considering both behavioral and neurobiological aspects in treating childhood aggression.

Keywords:
Conduct disorderCortisolDisorderHeart rateOppositional defiantPMTOParent trainingParenting practices

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