Self-esteem and neuroendocrine response to challenge: MacArthur studies of successful aging

The role of self-esteem in modulating patterns of neuroendocrine response to challenge at older ages was examined in 16 healthy 70-yr-olds. Responses to two challenges were examined: (1) a driving simulation designed to reflect a 'real life' challenge situation; and (2) a pharmacologic, corticotropin-releasing-hormone (CRH) challenge (1 micrograms/kg). Both challenges evoked significant elevations in cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Levels of self-esteem were significantly and negatively associated with peak elevations in cortisol in response to the driving simulation challenge (r = -0.51, p = 0.04). ACTH responses showed similar trends (r = -0.41, p = 0.12). Self-esteem levels were not correlated with responses to the CRH challenge. These data indicate that psychological characteristics such as self-esteem may play a role in modulating patterns of neuroendocrine response to cognitive/behavioral challenges in everyday life in older individuals.