For a long time, it was thought that oxytocin (otherwise known as the '"love hormone") directly brought about feelings of empathy, trust, and happiness in human beings. Recent research shows, however, that this may be an oversimplification of the way oxytocin works, and that it actually has a clarifying effect on existing emotions. This may have implications, among other things, for the way in which oxytocin is used to treat patients with autism.
Intrigued? Check out this gallery to learn all about oxytocin.