Hormones and Animal Social Behavior by Elizabeth Adkins-Regan (Author)

Hormones and Animal Social Behavior (Monographs in Behavior and Ecology)
Author: Elizabeth Adkins-Regan

Introduction

Hormones and Animal Social Behavior by Elizabeth Adkins-Regan explores the critical role that hormones play in shaping the social behaviors of animals. This book bridges the gap between endocrinology and behavioral ecology, providing an in-depth analysis of how hormonal mechanisms influence mating, parental care, aggression, and social bonding across various species. Adkins-Regan presents both theoretical and empirical perspectives, making this an essential resource for students and researchers interested in behavioral biology, neuroscience, and evolutionary science.

Key Points

• Hormonal Mechanisms: Explains how hormones regulate behavior at the physiological and molecular levels.
• Mating and Reproductive Behavior: Examines how hormones influence courtship, mate choice, and sexual differentiation.
• Parental Care: Discusses the hormonal basis of nurturing and caregiving behaviors in animals.
• Aggression and Dominance: Analyzes the role of testosterone and other hormones in competitive and territorial behaviors.
• Social Bonding: Investigates how hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin contribute to pair bonding and group interactions.
• Comparative Approach: Draws from a wide range of species, including birds, mammals, amphibians, and fish.
• Evolutionary Implications: Highlights how hormonal systems have evolved to support different social structures and behaviors.

Why Read This Book

• Provides a comprehensive overview of the interaction between hormones and behavior.
• Connects endocrinology with evolutionary and ecological perspectives.
• Written by a leading expert in the field, ensuring scientific accuracy and depth.
• Uses case studies and real-world examples to illustrate key concepts.
• Suitable for students, researchers, and professionals in biology, psychology, and animal behavior.

Conclusion

Hormones and Animal Social Behavior by Elizabeth Adkins-Regan is an essential text for understanding how hormones shape social interactions in animals. By combining endocrinology with behavioral ecology, this book offers a unique perspective on the biological basis of social behavior, making it a valuable resource for both academic study and research.