Scientists around the world are rapidly realising just what a pivotal role the hormone oxytocin plays in our lives. Sometimes called the ‘love drug’, or the ‘hug hormone’ it’s vital in child birth and lactation. But they’re also discovering it has major roles to play in trust, generosity, social recognition, anxiety, orgasm and love.
Dr Adam Guastella, based at the Brain and Mind Institute at the University of Sydney is at the forefront of research into oxytocin and behaviours.
His work ranges widely – including studies on how journalling may help people overcome trauma, and the use of an antibiotic in helping people overcome fear of spiders. He’s also developing new interventions as head of the Anxiety Clinic at the Institute.
Recently we sat down with him for a wide ranging interview, which we’ve split into three segments. In part 1 we asked about oxytocin. To hear it click on the mp3 player below. .
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