Web Essays for Engler’s Personality Theories (7th ed
The Neurobiological Basis of Relationships
For centuries, theorists have offered opinions about the differences between the personalities and psychological functioning of males and females. In recent years, technological advances has facilitated the study of such differences. Specifically, technology such as fMRI has allowed researchers to identify biological differences in the way male and female brains typically function. The results of such research suggest that compared to the brains of males, the brains of females seem particularly adept at empathizing and forming interpersonal relationships. On the other hand, the results also suggest that compared to the brains of females, the brains of males seem particularly adept at solving problems and working within logical systems. Some have summarized these disparities in brain functioning by stating that the brains of males and females are “wired” differently.
The same advanced technology that has clarified the differences between male and female brain functioning has also shed light on the neurobiological underpinnings of interpersonal relationships. Of course, these relationships could take the form of male-female romantic relationships, but they could also take the form of same-sex romantic relationships as well as non-romantic relationships such as family relationships, friendships, and the like. One clear finding of neurobiological factors in interpersonal relationships is that relationships affect brain development, especially early in life. That is, babies whose caregivers engage them in stimulating interpersonal interaction demonstrate a degree of brain growth that is not apparent in babies who are denied such experiences. Quite literally, the early important relationships that children form with parents and other caregivers, characterized by ongoing communication, cultivate the growth of their brains.
Research of this type has also highlighted the role of mirror neurons. Mirror neurons are thought to be the neurobiological representation of empathy. Put more simply, mirror neurons are the components of our brains that allow us to know what other people are experiencing. Those of us whose mirror neurons are greater in number or sensitivity may be naturally empathic to those around us, while those of use whose mirror neurons are lesser in number or sensitivity may not empathize much at all. It is interesting to note that individuals with autism, a disorder characterized by impaired social behavior (among other symptoms), have been found to have low functional levels of mirror neurons. (The term “autism” literally translates as “self-ism.” Although understanding of the disorder has changed since the inception of the term, the term nonetheless hints at a lack of concern or empathy toward others.)
It is also evident through recent research on this subject that relational experiences can change biological aspects of the brain, such as brain chemistry. As an example, social situations that produce rejection, stress, pleasure, or acceptance also produce changes in brain chemicals. Altogether, recent technologically advanced research on the neurobiological basis of interpersonal relationships suggest a reciprocal pattern of influence, such that the neurobiology of our brains and our relationship experiences both influence each other.
Critical Thinking Questions:
1. Besides autism, are there other psychological disorders or personality characteristics that might correlate with a low level of mirror neurons?
2. In the future, if brain scans become less expensive and more common, should should matchmaking sevices (e.g., , ) incorporate them into their profiles of individuals seeking relationships? Would such information as the level of mirror neurons be important to you in seeking a partner?
3. How does the finding that healthy, active interpersonal communication between caregivers and babies enhances the brain growth of babies compare with the approach that most parents take with their babies?
Web Links:
An article discussing research on brain scans (fMRI) and relationship experiences.
An article on the neural basis of romantic love relationships.
An article on the neurobiology of pair bonding.
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