Testosterone has long been identified as the most important male hormone, and numerous studies have explored its relationship to behavioral factors---particularly aggression. Despite the paucity of research, clinicians have yet to agree if testosterone replacement therapy contributes to anger in men; however, there is little debate that hormones are an integral part of our physical and emotional health.
Significance
Testosterone deficiency in men is linked with several physiological problems, according to endocrinology experts at the Mayo Clinic. Osteoporosis, reduced libido, loss of facial or body hair, hot flashes and erectile dysfunction may indicate insufficient hormonal levels. For young men with hypogonadism, testosterone replacement therapy benefits bone density, muscle mass and sexual health, as well as an overall sense of personal wellness.
Types
Several options exist for testosterone replacement, according to Dr. Simon Howell and Dr. Stephen Shalet in a 2001 issue of "Hormone Research." Methods include oral medication, intramuscular injection, a surgical implant and topical patch or gel, each of which has benefits and drawbacks. Choosing a therapy method often depends on what the patient prefers, including convenience and minimal side effects.
History
In the May 1978 issue of "Psychosomatic Medicine," Dr. Thomas Scaramella and Dr. Walter Brown found that increased testosterone levels in male hockey players corresponded to heightened aggression, but only in response to a perceived threat. Their findings were viewed as consistent with previous studies that associated testosterone with hostile behaviors among prison inmates.
New Research
Although data exist to suggest that testosterone may contribute to angry behavior, previous findings offer little insight for the general population. That's according to research from University of Massachusetts Medical School published in the August 2005 edition of "Neuroendocrinology Letters." Author Jean King, Ph.D., and colleagues found that normal testosterone levels were not at all linked with hostility for men or women, regardless of age or lifestyle factors.
Considerations
Testosterone replacement therapy is designed to support healthy hormone levels, but King and her fellow researchers caution that too much testosterone may, in fact, contribute to negative feelings or behaviors among men, as well as heightened stress reactions among women. Moreover, The Mayo Clinic suggests that lower testosterone levels may be a typical part of male aging; thus, it is important to explore the cause of hormonal deficiency---and its related effects---before proceeding with replacement therapy.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Endocrinology Update
- "Hormone Research"; Testosterone Deficiency and Replacement; Simon Howell and Stephen Shalet; September 2001
- American Psychosomatic Society: Serum Testosterone and Aggressiveness in Hockey Players
- Neuroendocrinology Letters: Association of Stress, Hostility and Plasma Testosterone Levels
