State and Trait Affectionate Communication Buffer Adults' Stress Reactions

Abstract

The present study tested the prediction that affectionate communication is positively associated with the release of oxytocin in response to stressors. One hundred participants completed questionnaire measures about their personal relationships prior to participation in a laboratory session that included a series of standard laboratory stressors. Both state and trait affectionate communication predicted increases in oxytocin during exposure to stressors, an effect that was not moderated by sex. The results demonstrate the stress-buffering effect of affectionate interaction.