Physical predictors, behavioural/emotional attributes and neurochemical determinants of dominant behaviour.

Significant differences in physical and behavioural/emotional/cognitive predictors and attributes, as well as of neurochemical inducers of behaviour, between dominant and subordinate animals are discussed. It is still unknown whether these factors are the causes of differences between dominants and subordinates, or vice versa whether the differences between dominants and subordinates are the origin of differences in these factors. The possibility is discussed that no differences exist among juveniles in the concentrations of neurochemical agents (known in the literature as determinants of dominance) between the brains of future dominants and future subordinates. We describe a study design that makes the assessment of the 'original' neurochemical profile of the brain possible.

The role of androgens in regulating emotional state and aggressive behavior.

This manuscript attempts to develop a new theory to explain both the pre- and post-encounter increase in testosterone levels and the varying dynamics of androgen levels in dominant and subordinate males. The new theory includes the following hypotheses: (i) The pre-encounter increase in testosterone levels is a result of the excitement that is caused by the anticipation of victory. Individuals who do not experience this kind of emotion before the encounter usually do not demonstrate an increased secretion of androgens. (ii) The post-encounter increase in testosterone levels is related to the pleasure that results as a result of victory and the sharp decrease in emotional tension. Additionally, an increased secretion of testosterone acts as a positive reward for the type of behavior that has led to the victory. (iii) A high basal level of testosterone in dominant males is only present in those instances when dominating not only results in a profit that is related to the possession of resources, but is also associated with low emotional tension.

Testosterone dynamics during encounter: role of emotional factors.

This study attempts to develop a new theory to explain the varying dynamics of testosterone levels in dominant (winners) and subordinate (losers) males, both pre- and post-encounter. The crux of our new theory consists of the following four theses: (1) the strengthening of testosterone synthesis is a result of not only the existence of challenges, but also of a positive mood before an encounter that is associated with the anticipation of a victory; (2) in situations where the anticipation of victory is present but the positive mood is absent, no rise in testosterone levels will occur; (3) testosterone acts as a "pleasure" hormone and usually releases in situations where the individual achieves or anticipates possible satisfaction; (4) an increased release of testosterone to the blood not only decreases anxiety but also elevates the mood, which increases animal's/human's assertiveness and consequently aggressiveness.