Karen L. Bales, Ph.D.
Neuroscience and Behavior Unit
Unit Leader
Professor
Department of Psychology
University of California, Davis
Dr. Bales’ research program focuses on the neurobiology of social behavior, and how human manipulations of the hormone oxytocin may affect the long-term ability to form social bonds. In addition, she studies the ways in which oxytocin and the closely related hormone arginine vasopressin subserve these social bonds. Dr. Bales works with two socially monogamous species, prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) and titi monkeys (Callicebus cupreus).
Children's Health
Dr. Bales is investigating the long-term effects of the application of oxytocin, which is currently being used in young children to correct social deficiencies with Autism Spectrum Disorder.