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Introduction
Page 1 - 2
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Methods and Results
Page 3
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Discussion
Pages 4
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References
Page 5
Abstract:
It is proposed that depression is the human homologue of an adaptive mammalian behavioral system, the reproductive postponement state. As documented most extensively in rodents, this state is mediated by a hormonal condition consisting of elevated adreno-cortico-trophic levels and depressed gonadal hormone levels. As a result, the animal ceases to be reproductively active: females cease to conceive or raise a litter; and males cease to maintain a territory. The state is triggered by social stress. In humans, not only depression, but also certain types of amenorrhea and delayed puberty may be seen as manifestations of a reproductive postponement state. The adaptive significance of this state and its significance for therapy of depressed patients are considered,
The address of this page is http://www.culture-of-peace.info/postponement /title page.html.
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