Relating testosterone levels and free play social behavior in male and female preschool children

This study assessed potential relationships between a series of behavioral measures seen in the interactions of preschool children with their peers (p articularly aggressive behavior) and testosterone levels. 28 boys and 20 gi rls of preschool age were videotaped in free play interactions. Their behav ior was then evaluated with particular emphasis on aggression and affiliati on in play and social interactions. Testosterone levels were measured using radioimmunoassay in saliva samples. Correlation analysis revealed a positi ve relationship in boys between testosterone and giving and receiving aggre ssion in the context of 'social interactions (serious aggression), bur not in the context of play (playful aggresstion). Testosterone can be a useful biological marker for serious aggression (and behavioral patterns reflectin g different levels of sociability) in preschool boys. (C) 2000 Elsevier Sci ence Ltd. All rights reserved.