AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -A number of studies have shown that when dogs and humans interact with each other in a positive way (for example cuddling) both partners exhibit a surge in oxytocin, a hormone which has been linked to positive emotional states.

Detailed explanation-2: -Oxytocin is produced mainly in the hypothalamus, where it is either released into the blood via the pituitary gland, or to other parts of the brain and spinal cord, where it binds to oxytocin receptors to influence behavior and physiology.

Detailed explanation-3: -Oxytocin is released peripherally and centrally in response to a variety of psychogenic and physical stressors and is an influential modulator of the neuroendocrine stress response.

Detailed explanation-4: -The most well-known situations, which are related to oxytocin release, are labor and breastfeeding, when oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and milk ejection respectively.

Detailed explanation-5: -Oxytocin is produced by the hypothalamus and produced into the body by the pituitary gland. It plays a role in sexual reproduction, childbirth, and social bonding. It has been referred to as “the love hormone", “the bonding hormone” and “the cuddle chemical".