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Updated: May 7, 2026
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Combining Behavioral Endocrinology and Experimental Economics: Testosterone and Social Decision Making
Published on: March 2, 2011
Testosterone inhibits trust but promotes reciprocity
Maarten A S Boksem1, Pranjal H Mehta, Bram Van den Bergh
11Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University.
Psychological Science
|September 28, 2013
Summary
Testosterone influences social behavior, decreasing trust but increasing generosity in repaying it. This suggests testosterone modulates different status-seeking strategies based on social context and potential threats.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Social Psychology
- Behavioral Economics
Background:
- Testosterone is linked to social status-seeking behaviors.
- These behaviors can be aggressive, competitive, or prosocial.
- The precise role of testosterone in modulating these behaviors remains complex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of testosterone administration on trust and reciprocity.
- To understand how testosterone influences different types of status-seeking behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized controlled trial was employed.
- Participants received a single dose of 0.5 mg of testosterone.
- Trust and reciprocity were measured using behavioral economic games.
Main Results:
- Testosterone administration decreased trust among participants.
- However, testosterone increased generosity when participants repaid trust.
- These effects indicate a nuanced impact of testosterone on social decision-making.
Conclusions:
- Testosterone may differentially regulate status-seeking behaviors.
- It might enhance antisocial behavior in threatening social contexts.
- Conversely, it may promote prosocial behavior when reputation is paramount and threats are absent.
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