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Published Mar 29, 2021

The Science of Emotions & Relationships | Huberman Lab Podcast #13

Explore the intricate science of emotions and relationships as Andrew Huberman dives into the development of emotional patterns from infancy, the role of hormones during adolescence, and the crucial impact of oxytocin and vasopressin in social bonding, offering insights and tools for better emotional regulation and understanding.
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  • Hormones

    Hormones play a crucial role in triggering puberty, with kisspeptin being a key player. explains that kisspeptin stimulates the release of GnRH, leading to increased production of testosterone and estrogen, which are vital for developing secondary sexual characteristics 1. Interestingly, kisspeptin is also used in performance enhancement, although its effects are subject to feedback loops. Pheromones, though controversial in humans, are another factor influencing puberty. notes the Vandenberg effect, where the presence of a novel male can trigger puberty in females, highlighting the complex interplay of chemical signals 2.

    Kisspeptin is able to drive very high levels of these hormones in an ongoing way so that puberty can commence and can continue.

    --- Andrew Huberman

    These insights underscore the intricate biological processes that govern puberty and development.

       

    Specialization

    Adolescence marks a transition from being a generalist to a specialist, particularly in emotional and brain functions. highlights that during puberty, individuals become adept at certain skills while losing proficiency in others, driven by neuroplasticity changes 3. This period also involves forming social and emotional bonds, as adolescents explore autonomy and test social interactions. The "autonomy buffet" concept allows teens to experiment with different experiences, shaping their emotional maturity 4.

    Adolescence and puberty is really seen as the period of development in which one self samples for these two elements that we talked about at the beginning, which are how do I form bonds and how do I make predictions about what will make me feel good.

    --- Andrew Huberman

    These developmental changes are crucial for establishing identity and emotional resilience.

       

    Behavior

    Behavioral shifts during adolescence are marked by increased autonomy and social dispersal. explains that adolescents naturally gravitate towards peers and away from primary caregivers, a pattern observed across mammalian species 5. This dispersal is linked to hormonal changes that enhance connectivity between brain regions involved in decision-making and emotional processing. Adolescents test social and physical interactions, often engaging in risky behaviors as they explore their environment 6.

    It's a time of testing behaviorally, how different behaviors lead to success or not. It's how different behaviors lead to fear states or not.

    --- Andrew Huberman

    Understanding these behaviors helps in guiding adolescents through this critical developmental stage.

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