A mu-opioid feedback model of human social behavior

Since the discovery of pain relieving and rewarding properties opiates such as morphine or heroin, human mu-opioid system has been a target for medical research on processing addiction. Indeed, pleasure act mutually inhibitory each other suggested an underlying common neurobiological mechanism. Recently, interest extended role endogenous beyond hedonic value towards social-emotional behavior. Here we propose feedback model social This is based upon recent findings opioid modulation learning, bonding empathy in relation to affiliative protective tendencies. Fundamental that reinforces socially behavior response positive negative experiences with long-term consequences health. The functional implications stress, anxiety, depression attachment behaviors are discussed.