Oxytocin pathways—which include the neuropeptide oxytocin, the related peptide vasopressin, and their receptors—are at the center of physiological and genetic systems that permitted the evolution of the human nervous system and allowed the expression of contemporary human sociality.  In general, oxytocin acts to allow the high levels of social sensitivity and attunement necessary for human sociality and for rearing a human child. Under optimal conditions oxytocin may create an emotional sense of safety. Oxytocin dynamically moderates the autonomic nervous system, and effects of oxytocin on vagal pathways, as well as the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of this peptide, help to explain the pervasive adaptive consequences of love, trust, and social behavior for emotional and physical health.

 

Presentation Topics:

• The biological foundations of building safe and healthy social bonds

• The effects of oxytocin on attachment, feelings of safety, and socialization

• The regulatory effects of oxytocin on the autonomic nervous system and vagal pathways

• The impact of love, trust, and social bonds on emotional and physical health