Amygdala volume and social network size in humans

Nat Neurosci. 2011 Feb;14(2):163-4. doi: 10.1038/nn.2724. Epub 2010 Dec 26.

Abstract

We found that amygdala volume correlates with the size and complexity of social networks in adult humans. An exploratory analysis of subcortical structures did not find strong evidence for similar relationships with any other structure, but there were associations between social network variables and cortical thickness in three cortical areas, two of them with amygdala connectivity. These findings indicate that the amygdala is important in social behavior.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Amygdala / anatomy & histology*
  • Amygdala / physiology
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Linear Models
  • Middle Aged
  • Organ Size
  • Social Behavior*
  • Social Support*