Impact of oxytocin on social bonding and its potential as a treatment for social anxiety disorder

Abstract

This literature review explores the impact of oxytocin on social bonding and its potential as a treatment for social anxiety disorder (SAD). The review synthesizes recent findings on oxytocin's biological and neurochemical aspects, its role in social bonding across species, and its implications for social anxiety. Studies consistently show oxytocin's involvement in trust, empathy, and attachment formation. Neuroimaging research reveals oxytocin's effects on key brain regions involved in social cognition and anxiety regulation, particularly the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Clinical trials investigating intranasal oxytocin administration for SAD have yielded promising but mixed results, highlighting the need for personalized approaches considering individual differences in oxytocin system functioning. The review also discusses challenges in developing oxytocin-based treatments, including optimal dosing, long-term efficacy, and potential side effects. Future research directions are proposed, emphasizing the importance of large-scale clinical trials, long-term studies, and interdisciplinary approaches to fully elucidate oxytocin's therapeutic potential for SAD.