Oxytocin Rises During Soccer Matches in Bolivia

Why this is here: Researchers observed the largest oxytocin increases after matches between familiar rivals, indicating the hormone responds to the importance of the opposition.

Researchers at the University of Zurich (UZH) measured oxytocin levels in soccer players among the Tsimane’ people in the Bolivian Amazon. They organized tournaments to systematically study competition and its effects on hormones. The team found oxytocin levels increased most after matches against known rivals, and again when the Tsimane’ played against people from different communities.

Men experienced a more significant increase in oxytocin levels than women did during the games. Researchers suggest this difference may stem from higher baseline levels in women due to breastfeeding or differing levels of investment in physical competition. The study notes women’s rivalries may focus more on social dynamics than physical contests.

The research does not yet determine if oxytocin primarily boosts team unity or fuels competition against opponents. Further study is needed to untangle these intertwined effects, but the findings suggest oxytocin plays a role in human group dynamics.