Chapter 11 Affiliative and reproductive strategies

Parturition

the birthing process

prolactin, estrogen, and progestorone

implicated in the expression of maternal behavior
showed differential levels and peaks during pregnancy

endorphins

prepare the mother for pain of delivery

medial pre-optic area of the hypothalamus (MPOA)

plays a significant role in maternal behavior

thalamus

connections to the cingulate cortex help regulate maternal behavior

dopaminergic mesolimbic system

active when nursing

nuerogenis

increased rates have been observed during both pregnancy and lactation in the sub ventricular zone

facultative paternal response

occasionally facilitate the care of their offspring

obligate paternal response

necessary for the survival of their offspring

paternal brain nuerochemicals

higher levels of prolactin and cortisol just prior to birth, lower testosterone just after birth

lesions to the MPOA

disrupt paternal responses

alloparenting

when relatives or unrelated adults help care for young