The Effect of Oxytocin on the Acquisition and Consolidation of Trauma-Associated Memories

The Effect of Oxytocin on the Acquisition and Consolidation of Trauma-Associated Memories: A Model to Understand the Development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

The purpose of the study is to examine whether oxytocin and oxytocin receptor gene polymorphism affect the development of intrusive memories, a cardinal symptom of PTSD.

Inclusion Criteria:

• healthy female volunteers
• German on a native level

Exclusion Criteria:

• former or present disorder according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5)
• any physical illnesses
• any medication intake (except oral contraceptive)
• history of traumatic experience, e.g. history of sexual abuse or rape
• pregnancy or lactation period
• follicular phase of menstrual cycle for all women not using oral contraceptives