Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 8, 2026

The Trier Social Stress Test Protocol for Inducing Psychological Stress
Published on: October 19, 2011
University Exams and Psychosocial Stress: Effects on Cortisol Rhythmicity in Students
Filipy Borghi1, Priscila Cristina da Silva1, Elisângela Farias-Silva1
1LABEEST-Laboratory of Stress Study, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
Background:
University exams are recognised as naturalistic stressors that may elicit psychosocial and physiological responses in students. This pilot study investigated the short- and long-term effects of exam-related stress on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, focusing on cortisol production and rhythmicity.
Methods:
Twenty-seven undergraduate students (aged 18-24 years) from a biological sciences programme participated. Hair cortisol concentrations were analysed for October (non-exam month) and November (exam month), while salivary cortisol was collected during 3 consecutive exam weekdays (Monday to Wednesday) at five daily time points to assess diurnal variation and the cortisol awakening response (CAR).
Results:
Hair cortisol levels were significantly higher in November than in October, suggesting greater cumulative HPA activation during the exam period. Salivary cortisol displayed a general diurnal pattern and CAR across the week. Morning cortisol values showed a nonsignificant numerical increase across days, though overall daily cortisol output (AUC) remained stable.
Conclusion:
Exam periods may be accompanied by elevated cumulative cortisol exposure while short-term HPA rhythmicity remains preserved. The combined use of hair and salivary biomarkers offers a multidimensional and feasible approach to investigating acute and cumulative stress responses in students. Larger longitudinal studies incorporating behavioural measures are warranted to confirm these findings.
More Related Videos
06:15A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents
Published on: July 10, 2017
07:32Use of Galvanic Skin Responses, Salivary Biomarkers, and Self-reports to Assess Undergraduate Student Performance During a Laboratory Exam Activity
Published on: February 10, 2016
Related Concept Videos
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Psychological Responses to Stress
Physiological Foundation of Stress
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
Components of Stress
Interestingly, the hidden cube faces also experience these stresses, equal and...