Poster 14: The 2D:4D finger ratio is a marker of prenatal testosterone exposure. This organizational influence of testosterone is thought to make people more sensitive to the activational influence of free testosterone in the bloodstream. Men with high free testosterone levels demonstrate increased cortisol reactivity during competition. We hypothesize that the chronic stress that accompanies competitive encounters among those most sensitive to testosterone can be a cause of stress-related illness.
Sixty-three male students filled out a series of questionnaires including measure of health symptoms and competitiveness. The participants' right hands were scanned and finger lengths were measured. Results indicated that finger ratio and competitiveness predict health in males. Males with high testosterone who viewed themselves as competitive reported more illness symptoms on the health report. This study helps show the effects of testosterone exposure and competitiveness on health, adding to the understanding of mental and physiological factors that can cause illness.
