Role of Androgens in the Establishment and Regulation of Behavioral Sex Differences in Mammals

Abstract

The differences between male and female in physiology and behavior have been the subject of comment by a large number of investigators. Some of the differences can be eliminated at least partially by varying the level and kind of gonadal hormone present in the adult individual, whereas others are more resistant to modification or influence by this simple technique (Young, 1961; Goy, 1964). The idea that hormonal treatment earlier in life might influence the expression of some of the traits more resistant to alteration was not encouraged by the evidence of a few decades ago (Beach, 1948). It was not until a new approach pioneered largely by the late William C. Young with the collaboration of Charles Phoenix and me was taken that the participation of early hormones in the establishment of sexuality became an acceptable hypothesis. Copyright © 1966. American Society of Animal Science. Copyright 1966 by American Society of Animal Science