Changes in Saliva Testosterone Levels During a 90-Day Shock Incarceration Program

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Abstract
Saliva testosterone concentrations were measured upon admission and at four-week intervals among inmates in a 90-day shock incarceration program, modeled after military boot camp. Testosterone was highest on the day of admission, dropped to a low four weeks later, and rose thereafter. There were significant differences among individuals in both mean scores and changes over time. Inmates showing the most improvement dropped less in testosterone early in the program and increased more later in the program. The results extend earlier findings that testosterone concentrations decline under conditions of stress and loss of social status.