(The full version of this wonderfully informative article by Linda F. Palmer can be found at: http://www.attachmentparenting.org/support/articles/artchemistry.php)
The Chemistry of Attachment (part 2)
Vasopressin & Protection
Although present and active during bonding in the mother and infant,
vasopressin plays a much bigger role in the father. This hormone promotes brain
reorganization toward paternal behaviors when the male is cohabitating with the
pregnant mother. The father becomes more dedicated to his mate and expresses
behaviors of protection.
Released in response to nearness and touch, vasopressin promotes bonding
between the father and the mother, helps the father recognize and bond to his
baby, and makes him want to be part of the family, rather than alone. It has
gained a reputation as the "monogamy hormone." Dr. Theresa Crenshaw, author of
The Alchemy of Love and Lust, says, "Testosterone wants to prowl, vasopressin
wants to stay home." She also describes vasopressin as tempering the man's
sexual drive.
Vasopressin reinforces the father's testosterone-promoted protective
inclination regarding his mate and child, but tempers his aggression, making him
more reasonable and less extreme. By promoting more rational and less capricious
thinking, this hormone induces a sensible paternal role, providing stability as
well as vigilance.
