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In my last post we talked about touch, Oxytocin and the social bonding that occurs as a result of the physical contact that produces Oxytocin release.
The conversation of touch, Oxytocin and social bonding leads us into a conversation about autism. So here we are – let’s explore this.
A couple of things that are characteristic in people with autism:
- Altered social bonding
- Touch sensitivity or aversion
- Generally lower baseline levels of Oxytocin
We also now know (from the last article) that touch types and situations are important for the production of Oxytocin. Considering that people with autism process stimuli and emotions differently to people without autism, it makes sense then that there would be even more factors to consider around the touch requirements for producing Oxytocin (and thus having the same effect).
A really small study has actually shown some really interesting increases in Oxytocin levels in children with autism resulting from consistent (daily) massage from mothers. A few behavioural changes also occurred as a result – things like: improved attention, improved communication and calmer.
There’s also been some work done around the application of intranasal Oxytocin (spray) for people with autism and then the continued application of massage. Seemingly when used in combination, the nasal spray of Oxytocin reduces the initial neural and behavioural resistance that often occurs in folks with autism.
This might be a bit of a window into an enhanced sense of bonding for people with autism, along with behavioural shifts that are also seemingly advantageous and reduce overall stress.
It’s important to note that the expectation of touch and the expectation of the person applying the massage (the mother) were also noted as important factors in the increase in Oxytocin levels.
Check out the paper over here if you’d like.
Yet another incredible application for massage. Remember, it’s not just about sore body parts – or at least, the function of massage can be so much more than helping people get out of pain (as if that’s not enough).
Something to ponder. And also something to remember, for when you’re out there in the world offering touch/hugs/greetings; that there are a LOT of factors that go into touch-induced Oxytocin release, and that for different people those factors might be different.
If you have any personal stories about this you’d like to share, I’d love to read them 🙂 Pop them below.
You might also like to read “We’re going to have our work cut out for us, you and I”.
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