Stress, cortisol, and social hierarchy. (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sherman, Gary D; Mehta, Pranjal H
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in psychology. Volume 33(2020)
• Page Start: 227
• Page End: 232
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: Psychology -- Periodicals; 150.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.09.013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-250X

Abstract

Highlights: We review the literature on cortisol and stress in social hierarchies. Cortisol and stress are high when status is chronically low or may soon be lost. Cortisol and stress are low when high status is stable and boosts sense of control. Cortisol acts as an output (stress index) and input (to behavioral inhibition). Three future directions: longitudinal research, stress contagion, and testosterone. Abstract : We review the literature on the relationships between cortisol, stress, and various forms of social status, concluding that cortisol (and stress) is typically elevated when one chronically lacks, or may soon lose, status. Moreover, cortisol is lower when status is higher, as long as that status is stable, enhances one's sense of control, and does not also substantially increase one's responsibilities. Because cortisol is both an output (stress indicator) and input (cause of behavioral inhibition), this low cortisol may be both a cause and consequence of stable status. Altogether, the cortisol-status relationship depends not just on one's status but on what that status means for the individual (e.g. How frequent and severe are stressors? Does one feel a sense of control? Does one need to be vigilant and deferential?).