The Effects of Behavioral Oxytocin Modification on Romantic Attitudes

Presenter's Name(s)

Madeline Yvette Powell, UVMFollow

Conference Year

January 2019

Abstract

Human beings make decisions based on implicit and explicit processes. The implicit processes are regulated by hormones; however, the same hormone could affect multiple behaviors. In this study, I will modify oxytocin levels by manipulating feelings of trustworthiness and observe if the changes in oxytocin levels affect a distinct construct controlled by this hormone: evaluative processes of romantic stimuli. I will utilize a neuroeconomic game to manipulate endogenous oxytocin levels and observe whether this manipulation changes people’s attitudes towards romantic pictures and their overall desire for a romantic connection.

Primary Faculty Mentor Name

Dr. Alessandra Rellini

Graduate Student Mentors

Wilson Captein

Faculty/Staff Collaborators

Wilson Captein (Graduate Student Mentor) and Salli-Ann Holloway (Collaborating Undergraduate Student)

Status

Undergraduate

Student College

College of Arts and Sciences

Program/Major

Neuroscience

Primary Research Category

Social Sciences

Secondary Research Category

Biological Sciences

Abstract only.

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The Effects of Behavioral Oxytocin Modification on Romantic Attitudes

Human beings make decisions based on implicit and explicit processes. The implicit processes are regulated by hormones; however, the same hormone could affect multiple behaviors. In this study, I will modify oxytocin levels by manipulating feelings of trustworthiness and observe if the changes in oxytocin levels affect a distinct construct controlled by this hormone: evaluative processes of romantic stimuli. I will utilize a neuroeconomic game to manipulate endogenous oxytocin levels and observe whether this manipulation changes people’s attitudes towards romantic pictures and their overall desire for a romantic connection.