Understanding Hormonal Reactions During Election Nights
As election results roll in on Tuesday nights, if you witness men pounding their chests or shaking their fists in excitement, don't be surprised. This behavior can often be attributed to the influence of hormones. A study examining voter reactions to the 2008 presidential election results revealed that the election night significantly affects testosterone levels in men, reminiscent of their reactions during major sports events like the World Series or the Super Bowl.
The 2008 Election and Testosterone Levels
Published in the October 2009 issue of PLoS One, this study measured the testosterone levels of 163 male and female participants during the final stages of the 2008 U.S. presidential election, specifically focusing on the night Barack Obama defeated John McCain. Participants provided saliva samples necessary for testing by chewing gum.
Typically, testosterone levels decrease throughout the day; however, on election night, the testosterone levels of male Obama supporters remained notably stable. In contrast, male supporters of McCain experienced a decline of about 30% from 8 PM to 1 AM, which was more significant than the usual daily drop. Notably, the election results did not have a similar impact on female testosterone levels.
Emotional Investment in Candidates
According to Duke University neuroscientist Kevin LaBar, the findings suggest that the male voters are not merely interested in the election results; they appear to form a close emotional bond with the candidates. This phenomenon mirrors the hormonal fluctuations seen in dedicated male sports fans during games involving their favorite teams.
The Link Between Sports and Elections
LaBar draws parallels between presidential elections and sporting events, indicating that both serve as real-life battles for social dominance. They are ancient competitions among alpha males for power, mates, and resources. The hormonal changes observed may provide a biological basis for connecting individuals within larger societal groups. Research on sports enthusiasts indicates that during games, areas of the brain responsible for empathy are activated, contributing to this collective experience.
Potential Risks of Emotional Engagement
However, this physiological investment in the outcomes also has its downsides. LaBar points out that such emotional stakes might explain the violence that sometimes emerges after sporting events. Fans of the winning team often feel empowered and invulnerable, while supporters of the losing team may experience feelings of helplessness that could trigger inappropriate behaviors.
Temporary Nature of Hormonal Changes
It’s important to note that these hormonal shifts are considered temporary. Researchers believe that by the following morning, testosterone levels generally return to their baseline. This study highlights the profound impact that significant events, such as elections, can have not just on societal dynamics but also on individual physiological responses.
Understanding these reactions enhances our comprehension of human behavior during high-stakes situations and underscores the interplay between biological processes and social phenomena.