Human behavioral sex differences: a role for gonadal hormones during early development?

Area of Science:

• Neuroendocrinology
• Developmental Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Gonadal hormones play a critical role in sexual differentiation across species.
• Theoretical models exist to explain hormonal influences on behavior, often derived from animal studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and evaluate evidence for gonadal hormone influences on human behavior development.
• To assess the applicability of existing theoretical models to human data.
• To identify specific behaviors influenced by prenatal and neonatal hormonal exposure.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing research on gonadal hormones and human behavior.
• Evaluation of theoretical models using human data from individuals with normal and abnormal hormonal profiles.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests gonadal hormones influence human behaviors exhibiting sex differences, with strongest support for childhood play, followed by sexual orientation and aggression.
• High hormone levels do not enhance intelligence, but a minimum level may be necessary for optimal cognitive development.
• Current data is insufficient to definitively select a single model explaining all hormonal influences on behavior.

Conclusions:

• Gonadal hormones impact the development of certain human behaviors, particularly those showing sex differences.
• Sexual differentiation is complex and may involve multiple dimensions, potentially requiring different models for different behaviors.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and models of hormonal influence on human behavior.