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Endogenous estradiol levels are associated with attachment avoidance and implicit intimacy motivation
Robin S Edelstein1, Steven J Stanton, Melanie M Henderson
1Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. redelste@umich.edu
Hormones and Behavior
|December 8, 2009
Summary
Estradiol levels correlate with personality traits influencing intimate relationships. Highest estradiol was found in individuals with low attachment avoidance and high intimacy motivation, suggesting a link between biology and relationship behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Psychology
- Social Neuroscience
Background:
- Estradiol is implicated in attachment and caregiving behaviors.
- The relationship between estradiol and personality constructs relevant to intimate relationships remains unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between endogenous estradiol levels and personality constructs (attachment style, implicit intimacy motivation) in adults.
- To explore how these personality constructs interact to predict estradiol levels.
Main Methods:
- 100 adult participants (52 men, 48 women) were analyzed.
- Endogenous estradiol levels were measured.
- Attachment style (attachment avoidance) and implicit intimacy motivation were assessed.
Main Results:
- Estradiol levels were predicted by an interaction between attachment avoidance and implicit intimacy motivation in both men and women.
- Participants with low attachment avoidance and high intimacy motivation exhibited the highest estradiol levels.
Conclusions:
- Endogenous estradiol levels are associated with relationship-relevant personality constructs in a theoretically meaningful manner.
- Interactions between implicit and explicit personality constructs are crucial for understanding the biological underpinnings of personality and relationship behaviors.
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