The Inverse of Psychopathology: A Loreta EEG and Cortisol Examination

Abstract

Low resolution electromagnetic tomography (LORETA) electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded from 63 nonclinical adults (34 female and 29 male) while they completed inventories on self-perception (Self-Perception and Experiential Schemata) and psychological well-being (The Brief Symptom Inventory–18). In addition, salivary samples were collected before and after the self-assessment tasks for cortisol analyses. The statistical analyses revealed a significant decrease in cortisol levels from pretest to posttest self-examination. This decline in salivary cortisol was inversely correlated with greater left-sided than right-sided hemisphere activation. Self-perception and self-in-relation to others predicted resting salivary cortisol levels. These data provide further evidence for the use of LORETA EEG, in particular, as a biological marker for emotional self-regulation.