| Title: |
The predictive value of low heart rate and heart rate
variability during stress for reoffending in delinquent
male adolescents |
| Author(s): |
Marjan, de Vries-Bouw, Arme Popma, Robert Vermeiren, Theo A.H. Doreleijers, Peter M., van de Ven and Lucres M.C. Jansen |
| Journal: |
Psychophysiology |
| Year: |
2011 |
| Volume: |
48 |
| Pages: |
1596-1603 |
| DOI: |
10.1111/j.1469-8986.2011.01233.x |
| File URL: |
vuams-pubs/2011_vries-bouw_delinquency_HRV.pdf |
| Keywords: |
Heart rate, Behavioral medicine, Children/infants |
| Abstract: |
Low autonomic (re)activity is a consistent correlate of antisocial behavior in juveniles. However, longitudinal research
relating autonomic measures to persistent antisocial behavior has remained scarce. Therefore, in the present study we
examined the predictive value of heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV, often studied as respiratory sinus
arrhythmia) for reoffending in delinquent male adolescents. At initial assessment, HR and HRV were measured at rest
and in response to a public speaking task. Registered reoffending was assessed after 5-year follow-up. Attenuated HR
response and stronger HRV response to stress predicted higher reoffending rates. Results provide evidence that HR/
HRV reactivity are neurobiological markers for persistent juvenile antisocial behavior. Although effect sizes were small
to moderate, our findings underscore the consistency of the relationship between autonomic markers and antisocial
behavior. |
