Background:
A recent IISBR study integrated behavioral endocrinology and network science to explore links between hormones and social network dynamics. Specifically, we examined how cortisol (C) and testosterone (T) are associated with creation of new friendships and maintenance of existing friendships. Stochastic actor-based models revealed that individuals with higher C levels were less likely to maintain their social relationships and more likely to create new friendships. In contrast, individuals with higher T levels were more likely to maintain friendships and less likely to create new relationships. Findings suggest that individual differences in C and T are associated with the initiation and maintenance of friendships and have several noteworthy theoretical implications.
