Hormones

I.B. Learning Outcome B7- Using one or more examples,

explain functions of two hormones in human behavior. I can explain the difference between a

neurotransmitter and hormone. I can explain the impact that oxytocin and

cortisol have on human behavior.

Hormones Chemical substances, secreted by

organs call glands, that affect the functioning of other organs.

Hormones vs. Neurotransmitters Neurotransmitters are released in the

brain Hormones are released by glands in the

body. When hormones are active in the brain,

they serve as neurotransmitters…

Example #1: Cortisol Stress hormone

Produced in adrenal gland When under stress, it increases arousal

level and prepares you for action. Pupils Dilate, Heart beats faster, blood-

sugar levels rise, digestion slows down.

Example #2: Oxytocin Released by the pituitary gland. Only exists in mammals. Acts primarily as a neurotransmitter. Involved in building bonds, trust, and

generosity. The coolest hormone ever!

Feldman et al. (2012) Hormone: Oxytocin Aim: To investigate the role of Oxytocin

in early relationships in young adults. Method:

Measured the oxytocin levels of 120 young adults (60 couples of 3 months) and 43 singles.

Measured oxytocin levels of the same participants six months later.

Feldman et al. (2012) Findings:

Oxytocin levels were higher for the new couples than the individuals.

High Oxytocin levels at the first test correlated with couples staying together after 6 months.

High Oxytocin predicted more affectionate touch, reciprocity, positive emotions, and worries about the partner and relationship.

Conclusion: Oxytocin plays a key role in the formation of new romantic relationships among young adults.

Critical Thinking: Did not test Oxytocin before falling in love... Ecological Validity?

Ditzen (2013) Hormone: Oxytocin Aim: To determine the impact of

oxytocin on couples’ communication. Method: Had couples either spray

oxytocin or a placebo up their nose and engage in a high stress conversation.

Ditzen (2013) Continued Findings:

Oxytocin improved communication and lowered levels of cortisol.

Women: showed less social stress Men: showed more social stress and were

more engaged in the conversation (Eye contact, smiling, etc.)

Conclusions: Oxytocin impacts the ways that couples communicate.

Newcomer et al (1999) Hormone: Cortisol Aim: To determine the role of cortisol on

memory. Method: Double-Blind study that had asked

three groups to take varying levels of cortisol over a four day period and tested their ability to remember verbal information.

1. High Level: Tablet of 160 mg Cortisol each day…simulates a major stressful event.

2. Low Level: Tablet of 40 mg of Cortisol each day…Simulated a minor stressful event.

3. Placebo: Tablet with no active ingredient.

Newcomer et al. (1999) continued Findings:

The High Level group performed worse on the memory test than the Low Level group.

The Low Level group showed no memory decrease when compared with the placebo group.

Conclusions: High Levels of cortisol have a negative impact on a person’s ability to recall verbal data.