In recent years, the hormone oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the “love hormone,” has received a great deal of attention for its ability to enhance social and emotional bonds between people. While research has found oxytocin to have some fascinating effects on human behaviors, the suggestion that it is exclusively responsible for emotion-filled experiences of love has been increasingly called into question, leading researchers to suggest that its reputation as the love hormone might be overrated.
At its core, oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter with a wide range of physiological functions, among which are roles in reproduction, lactation, and the birthing process. In addition, it has been found to play a role in determining levels of social and emotional trust and in mediating certain anti-stress responses, leading to its somewhat exaggerated reputation as the love hormone.
The trouble with oxytocin is that, despite its fascinating and widespread effects on the human body and behavior, its exact mechanism is not yet known; the influence of the hormone on social and emotional behavior is still the subject of much debate. One theory suggests that oxytocin might help create an emotional bond between people when triggered by positive forms of social interaction, such as hugging, kissing, and smiling. However, other research shows that it is involved in more than just positive social behaviors, as it has been found to be a factor in increased stress and aggression as well.
Some studies even suggest that oxytocin might be more of a “trust hormone” than a “love hormone,” as its effects may vary depending on one’s level of trust in another individual. This variance in response indicates that oxytocin might not be the simple answer to understanding the complexities of love that we have been searching for; rather, it may help form one of the components of trust between two individuals.
In short, while research into the effects of oxytocin is continuing and its role in human social behaviors is gaining more attention, its reputation as the love hormone appears to be overrated. Although it may have a role to play in the emotion of love, it is likely not the only factor. A more nuanced understanding of oxytocin is still required, as it appears to be just one of the various pieces of the emotional puzzle that is human behavior.
