by: Mason Gentry
Love, or social attachment, is commonly thought to be a one-dimensional emotion. But, while love may induce emotions, it is instead several vastly complex biological processes.
Simply explained, love is just another word to explain social attachment.
To understand love as a biological process, evolution must be considered.
According to researchers at the Research Triangle Institute of International, C. Sue Carter and Stephen W. Porges claimed in a document called the “Biochemistry of love: an oxytocin hypothesis” that, “Life on Earth is fundamentally social: the ability to interact dynamically with other living organisms to support mutual homeostasis, growth and reproduction evolved early.”
Carter and Porges wrote that even bacteria recognize members of their own species and, together, can make communities and reproduce more successfully. Insects, too, have evolved social systems called “eusociality.” Carter and Porges wrote that, “Molecular mechanisms favoring high levels of sociality seem to be on an evolutionary fast track.”
Considering the human brain, there is a region called the hypothalamus. This region holds a hormone called oxytocin, often referred to as “the love hormone.” Oxytocin has been known in the scientific community to be responsible for female reproductive functions but has more recently been found to be an important player in any social bonding.
According to a recent document by the Massachusetts Daily Collegian, “Oxytocin contributes to relaxation, trust, and psychological stability.”
The document also reported that a study by “Nature” found that a nasal spray of oxytocin given to gamblers increased their trust toward strangers. Another study, in 2014, showed that a nasal spray of the substance also caused people to see emotions of others more intensely.
There are even oxytocin-laced perfumes on the market. These perfumes, however, have shown a questionable functionality.
Another hormone related to social attachment is Vasopressin. “Particularly important to social bonding are the interactions between oxytocin and a related peptide, Vasopressin,” Carter and Porges wrote.
They continued that the genes responsible for the production both chemicals are located on the same chromosome.
To differentiate, Carter and Porges wrote that Vasopressin is related to “physical and emotional mobilization,” supporting action and defense needed for self-defense or guarding partners and territory.
Carter and Porges reported a study done on prairie voles. The results showed that they are generally social before mating but within approximately one day after mating, begin to show higher levels of aggression toward intruders.
“Love is just another word to explain social attachment”
This may explain behaviors related to one’s aggression toward threats, “possibly serving to protect or guard a mate, family, or territory,” Carter and Porges wrote.
On the other hand, oxytocin is typically related to relaxed and physiological states. This hormone may make it easier for women to love and be more comfortable around their newborns.
“In highly social species such as prairie voles, and presumably in humans, the intricate molecular dances of oxytocin and vasopressin fine-tune the coexistence of care-taking and protective aggression,” Carter and Porges mentioned.
According to the “Massachusetts Daily Collegian,” oxytocin may be found to have effects on the reduction of anxiety and is also responsible for joy but “it has been found to strengthen both good and bad memories, and even increase anxiety over future triggering events.”
They continued that the hormone activates a part of the brain that that is responsible for intensifying the memory for six hours. In other words, oxytocin may trigger bad memories and enhance induction of fear or anxiety.
There is still much to learn about love and its effects on humans and other animals.
