How does testosterone affect play?

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Testosterone plays a significant role in shaping play behaviors, particularly in juvenile males. According to Carole Hooven's discussion on "The Jordan Harbinger Show," testosterone is linked to rough and tumble play in male juvenile animals. This type of play, which includes activities like wrestling and physical contest, is more prevalent among males and is understood to be a preparation for adult survival and reproductive behaviors which often involve physical competition.

The effect of testosterone on play is evident not just in non-human animals but also in humans. For instance, girls who have congenital adrenal hyperplasia and thus higher levels of testosterone from in utero are more likely to engage in play typical of boys. These observations suggest that early testosterone exposure has a profound effect on developing preferences and behaviors related to play, which are consistent across different cultures 1.

Would you like to know more about the biological influences of testosterone on behavior or other aspects of testosterone's role in development?

Testosterone and Play

Carole explains how testosterone influences rough and tumble play in male animals, and how this behavior is also seen in human boys. She also discusses the effects of testosterone on girls with congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

The Jordan Harbinger Show

694: Carole Hooven | How Testosterone Dominates and Divides Us
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