The chemistry of child neglect: Do oxytocin and vasopressin mediate the effects of early experience?

Research described in a recent issue of PNAS by Wismer Fries, Ziegler, Kurian, Jacoris, and Pollak (1) reveals significant group differences in two brain-derived neuropeptides, oxytocin and vasopressin, between family- versus orphanage-reared children. These intriguing results may stimulate a new chapter in the ongoing scientific dialogue concerning the neurobiological effects of early experience.published or submitted for publicationis peer reviewe