Abstract:  Several studies have reported sex differences in the effects of oxytocin on many social cognitive activities, including particularly social judgment, social approach/avoidance, social cooperation/competition, and maintenance of relationships. At the neural level, the oxytocin-related sex differences are mainly reflected by the activation pattern of the amygdala and the reward system. Currently, the oxytocin-related sex differences are mainly explained by sex-associated evolutionary traits and hormonal levels, as well as the cumulative effects of sex differences. In the future, a more accurate experimental design is needed to validate the sex differences linked to oxytocin in social cognition. Based on this, a more rational and effective theoretical model will be established, whereby the influence of sex-related factors in clinical application will be further emphasized.

Key words: Oxytocin, sex differences, social cognition, neural mechanism