Elevated Serum Testosterone in Young Offenders: A Case-Control Study

Background The role of testosterone in aggressive and antisocial behavior remains debated. While often linked to dominance and impulsivity, its causal relevance in delinquency is unclear. This study aimed to compare serum testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone levels between young male offenders and non-offending controls. Methods A case-control design was employed involving 28 incarcerated males (18-24 years) and 21 age-matched university students. Blood samples were collected under fasting conditions in the early morning. Free testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone were quantified via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), while alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were analyzed to assess hepatic integrity. Statistical comparisons were made using Student's t-tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results Plasma testosterone levels were significantly higher in offenders (14.2 ng/mL) than in controls (11.7 ng/mL; t = -2.015, p = 0.050). No group differences were observed in estradiol (t = 0.066, p = 0.947) or progesterone levels (t = 1.677, p = 0.100). ALT levels were unexpectedly elevated in the control group (59.19 IU/L vs. 39.64 IU/L; t = 2.741, p = 0.009), though AST levels were comparable (t = 0.406, p = 0.686). All hormone levels remained within clinically normal ranges. Conclusions Testosterone levels were elevated but clinically normal in young offenders, consistent with previous literature suggesting a potential biological contribution to aggression-related behaviors. However, hormonal profiles alone are insufficient to explain delinquency. Environmental influences, developmental history, and neural mechanisms regulating impulse control likely interact with endocrine factors. The findings support integrative models of antisocial behavior and suggest future research should combine neurobiological and psychosocial assessments. The observed ALT elevation in controls underscores the importance of strict screening in control group selection.