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Association Between Estradiol and Human Aggression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Yalan Wang1, Haifang Wang, Jianzheng Cai
1From the Department of Nursing (Y. Wang, H. Wang, Cai, Yu, Y.Y. Zhang, Y. Zhang, Tang), the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University; and Department of Nursing, School of Nursing (Wang), Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
Psychosomatic Medicine
|September 7, 2023
Summary
Human aggression shows a weak positive link with estradiol levels. Factors like participant sex, age, and aggression measures influence this relationship, impacting future research on aggression risk.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The relationship between estradiol and human aggression is complex and not fully understood.
- Previous studies show mixed results, necessitating a comprehensive review.
Approach:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across five major databases up to June 5, 2023.
- Data from 14 studies (1820 participants) were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model.
Key Points:
- A weak positive correlation was found between estradiol and human aggression (Fisher z = 0.16).
- Heterogeneity in results was attributed to participant sex and age, aggression measurement tools, and study quality.
Conclusions:
- Estradiol concentration is weakly associated with human aggression.
- Understanding this link, considering moderating factors, can help identify individuals at risk for aggressive behaviors.
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