Hormones are important regulators of many physiological processes. Researchers were particularly interested in five hormones that can influence parental behavior: oxytocin, vasopressin, testosterone, estradiol, and cortisol. Oxytocin is sometimes referred to as the “love hormone” because it is involved in social bonding and close relationships.
For their study, the researchers collected a sample of 73 prospective fathers that they began observing. About two months after the baby was born, the participants began showing the researchers how they played. Their interactions were recorded. In addition, tests were taken from the fathers.
It turned out that testosterone levels in young fathers decreased significantly after the birth of a child, but estradiol levels did not change. Testosterone and estradiol alone were not associated with parental sensitivity. But the researchers found evidence that the interaction of the two hormones plays an important role. But they found no confirmation of the importance of oxytocin.
Source: Ferra
