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Menstrual cycle and social behavior in vervet monkeys
A J Rapkin1, D B Pollack, M J Raleigh
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Los Angeles 90024-1740, USA.
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Social behavior in female vervet monkeys changes with ovarian steroids. Subordinate females
Area of Science:
- Primate behavior
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Social dynamics
Background:
- Menstrual cycle phases are linked to hormonal fluctuations.
- Hormonal changes can influence social behavior in female primates.
- The impact of social hierarchy on behavior during the menstrual cycle is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the menstrual cycle and social behavior in female vervet monkeys.
- To determine if social status influences behavioral responses to hormonal changes.
- To differentiate hormonally mediated behaviors from environmentally influenced behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Observation of social interactions and behaviors in 11 adult female vervet monkeys.
- Correlation of behavioral patterns with specific phases of the menstrual cycle.
- Analysis of the influence of social hierarchy, particularly dominant female behavior, on subordinate females.
Main Results:
- Behavioral changes, including increased aggression and avoidance, were observed during the late luteal phase.
- Subordinate females exhibited altered social behavior in response to the dominant female's late luteal phase.
- Social environment and dominance status significantly impacted behavior, independent of individual hormonal cycles.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral patterns in female vervet monkeys are influenced by both ovarian steroids and social environment.
- Dominant female presence can be a significant driver of behavioral changes in subordinate females.
- Further research is needed to distinguish hormonally mediated from environmentally dependent behaviors in humans, particularly concerning premenstrual syndrome.