Isabel Jacober

• SOAR Position: Treasurer 2024-2025
• Major: Psychology
• Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. Tiffany Rogers

Current Focus: Examining the role of oxytocin in social motivation

Project Description

Oxytocin, a neurotransmitter often associated with increased social engagement, has been proposed as a treatment for the decreased social motivation often seen in those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, my lab’s research on oxytocin has shown it to decrease social motivation. Further, outcomes of clinical trials with oxytocin have been inconsistent. My research further investigates oxytocin’s abilities as a normalizer of social motivation. Because oxytocin is also associated with increased parental behaviors, my research examines oxytocin’s role in motivation to engage in parental behaviors. Research into the relationship between oxytocin and reward has bearing on more than just social behaviors. Oxytocin has also been suggested as a treatment for substance abuse and addiction as it may reduce motivation for rewards. Understanding the implications of oxytocin treatment on social rewards, social motivation, and parental behaviors will aid in determining its efficacy as a treatment for addiction and ASD.

Why does this topic interest you?

I am interested in research on the interaction between the prenatal environment and atypical behavioral and emotional development/expression. Particularly, I want to examine the effects of alcohol and drug abuse and long-term maternal stress on a developing child. Autism can result from teratogenic exposure and, as such, is one of the disorders that I am interested in researching.

What are your professional aspirations?

I would love to be a professor and conduct research!

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Be proactive in seeking out opportunities to gain research experience—most things don’t just fall into your lap!

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