Influence of test tasks with different cognitive demands on salivary cortisol concentrations in school students

This study aimed to investigate the effects of test tasks with different cognitive demands on salivary cortisol concentrations in school students. The salivary cortisol levels of 93 students (56 males and 37 females, mean age 17.86 yrs.) were measured before and after 2 brief tests and 2 control situations, respectively. One of the tests comprised reproductive, the other transfer and problem-solving tasks. In the control groups, students were instructed to either write whatever they want, or to wait.Statistical analysis (ANOVA) indicated a significant main effect of the experimental treatment on the cortisol response. The cortisol increase was significantly higher following the reproduction tasks as compared to both control conditions. Although not significant the cortisol increase during reproduction tasks was over twice as much in males compared to females. In contrast the increase during transfer and problem solving tasks does not differ significantly from the control conditions under which the cortisol concentration remains nearly the same and decreases respectively. These findings indicate an influence of the task demand on the cortisol concentration. Furthermore, it can be assumed that reproduction tasks in particular have the potential to be a major stressor during school examinations.

► We tested school students in a realistic test situation typical for schools.
► We found a direct influence of the task demands on the salivary cortisol level.
► The cortisol increase was highest following simple reproduction tasks.
► Cortisol levels increased in a test situation without high social-evaluative threat.