UC Davis

This dissertation explores the intricate relationship between social bonds, neurobiological processes, and cognitive functions, drawing insights from studies conducted with a social monogamous nonhuman primate, the titi monkey (Plecturocebus cupreus). The first chapter investigates attachment behavior across the lifespan, using titi monkeys as an animal model with infant and adult attachments similar to humans. The findings reveal a linear relationship between infant responses to separation and adult affiliative behavior, supporting the titi monkey as a suitable model for further exploration of the neurobiology of attachment. The second chapter delves into the role of dopamine in pair bonding, highlighting its connection to preexisting neural pathways and exploring the overlap between dopaminergic pathways critical for pair bonding and non-social cognitive processes. The review suggests that pair bonding can influence general cognitive functions such as attention, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and impulse control, expanding our understanding of the broader cognitive implications of social bonds.The third study explores the multifaceted nature of pair bonds, emphasizing the neurobiological and behavioral changes associated with these social connections. Examining D1R binding potential in female titi monkeys and exploring cognitive changes related to pair bond formation, the research uncovers temporal sensitivity and individual variability in pair bonding, with distinct impacts during the initial phases of pairing and potential sex differences in neural networks. These findings raise questions about the underlying neurobiological mechanisms, inviting further exploration into the complexities of social bonds and enhancing our comprehension of social connections. Overall, this dissertation contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between social bonds, neurobiology, and cognitive processes in both human and non-human primates.