Abstract

BRUIN, Esther I. de; NIJS, Pieter F.A. de; HUIZINK, Anja C.  and  VERHULST, Frank C.. High 3D:5D ratio: A possible correlate of externalizing and internalizing problems: An exploratory study. Eur. J. Psychiat. [online]. 2011, vol.25, n.1, pp.46-53. ISSN 0213-6163.

Background and Objectives: The second to fourth (2D:4D) digit ratio is a sexually dimorphic trait which has been studied to examine the association between fetal hormones and a variety of behaviors. Lower 2D:4D ratios, suggestive of exposure to higher levels of prenatal testosterone, have been associated with male-linked disorders, while higher 2D:4D ratios, suggestive of exposure to weaker prenatal androgen action, have been associated with female-linked disorders. Past research has concentrated on the 2D:4D ratio, whereas the relationship between other ratios, such as the 3D:5D ratio, and psychopathology has not much been studied before. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the correlation between the 2D:4D and 3D:5D ratio, and internalizing as well as externalizing symptoms, in a large non-clinical sample (143 boys, 150 girls) of white Caucasian children aged 7 to 13 years. Methods: Externalizing and internalizing symptoms were assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Results: The 3D:5D ratio in boys and in girls was positively associated with scores on Externalizing Problems. Further, in girls only, the 3D:5D ratio was positively correlated to scores on Internalizing Problems. Conclusions: The 3D:5D ratio can be considered a correlate of externalizing and internalizing problems in children from the general population.

Keywords : 3D:5D ratio; 2D:4D ratio; Externalizing and internalizing problems.

        · text in English     · English ( pdf )