Hormones and Behaviour

HPG axis

The hormonal system that involves the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and gonads, regulating testosterone production.

Challenge hypothesis

The theory that testosterone levels fluctuate based on competition, particularly in species that mate for life, decreasing when caring for offspring so that the male can engage in parental care

Cortisol

A hormone produced as a result of stress that helps restore homeostasis but builds up in chronic stress situations. Produced in the HPA axis

HPA axis

The hormonal axis that involves the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands, regulating the body's response to stress.

Testosterone to cortisol ratio

The ratio of testosterone to cortisol levels that can predict social hierarchy and dominance.

T/C ratio and social hierarchy

• When the hierarchy is established through physical fighting, the alpha has high testosterone and high cortisol

• When the hierarchy is established through intimidation, the alpha has high testosterone and low cortisol

Gaze aversion

A subordinate gesture where individuals avoid making eye contact to signal submission.

Emotional stroop task

A task used to measure the interference of emotional words on reaction time, showing how emotions affect cognitive processing.

Social aggression

Aggressive behavior aimed at social intimidation rather than physical violence, involving displays of dominance.

Reactive threat system

A neural circuit involving the brainstem, hypothalamus, and amygdala, guiding responses to perceived threats, influenced by testosterone and cortisol.

Decoupling OFC from amygdala

The process by which testosterone affects emotional regulation, potentially increasing aggressive behavior.