ISSN : 1229-0718
Attachment behaviors in human and animals can be characterized as infants' preference of mothers, and showing intensive distress when they were separated from the mothers. It has been suggested that these affiliative and distress behaviors in mother-child attachment is influenced by neurochemical activities. This study reviewed literatures and research articles on neurochemical bases of attachment behaviors, particularly focusing on the function of three neuropeptides: (1) stress hormones including catecholamine and cortisol, (2) endogenous opioids like morphime and naloxone, and (3) pituitary hormone oxytocin and vasopressin. Previous studies have reported that each of these neuropeptides plays a critical role in establishing affective bonds, and coping with stress from separation. Findings of animal research provides researchers with valuable information on neurochemical paths of attachment behaviors, but cannot be solely applied to the human.
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