Affectionate Communication Received from Spouses Predicts Stress Hormone Levels in Healthy Adults

Differences in HPA axis reactivity to intimacy in women with and without histories of sexual trauma

“…This is based in the finding that among healthy individuals, stress levels appear to be negatively associated with aspects of intimacy (Floyd and Riforgiate, 2008). Given the issues surrounding intimacy among sexual trauma survivors, therefore, it is possible that intimacy may serve as a potential stressor for such individuals, thereby triggering HPA axis activation (i.e., positive correlation).…”

Interpersonal Touch Buffers Pain Sensitivity in Romantic Relationships but Heightens Sensitivity between Strangers and Friends

“…In addition, however, a robust empirical literature attests to the health-promotive and pain-alleviating effects of personal relationships and relational interaction. In terms of health benefits, for instance, research shows that relationship quality and emotional support protect against upper respiratory illness and infection [5]; reduce cortisol and increase oxytocin reactivity to stressors [6,7]; modulate 24-hour adrenocortical activity [8]; are associated with lower resting blood pressure [9]; and even reduce susceptibility to the common cold [10]. The present study examines the possibility that interpersonal touch in the context of such relationships between romantic partners, platonic friends, or even strangers also contributes to wellness by buffering the pain response.…”

Your Shelter or Mine? Romantic Relationships Among the Homeless

“…These relationships are not just socially beneficial but improve physiological responses as well. Our bodies respond very favorably to affectionate behavior from our romantic partners by increasing ratios of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (Floyd and Riforgiate 2008). This physical trait led Floyd and Riforgiate to believe that one social answer to lowering stress levels is to increase love and fondness within romantic relationships.…”