Is testosterone all bad? Researchers find high levels can make men MORE trustworthy

Men given gels containing the hormone lied far less in lab tests Researchers say testosterone's reputation for fuelling aggression may need to be rethought

By Daily Mail Reporter

PUBLISHED: 16:18 EST, 10 October 2012 | UPDATED: 20:15 EST, 10 October 2012

Testosterone is often associated with aggression and antisocial behaviour.

But it seems high levels of the male hormone, which boosts libido and builds muscle, may make men less likely to lie and cheat.

In a study, scientists boosted the testosterone levels of 46 men by smearing their skin with a gel containing the hormone. Another 45 were treated with a placebo.

High levels of testosterone have previously been associated with bodybuilding and aggressive behaviour - but now researchers believe men with high levels could be more trustworthy.

Both groups were then asked to take part in a behavioural study which involved playing a simple game of dice in an isolated booth. The higher the scores they entered into a computer, the more money they received as a reward.

Neuroscientist Professor Bernd Weber, from the University of Bonn in Germany, said:

'These experiments were designed such that the test subjects were able to lie.

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Is testosterone all bad? Researchers find high levels can make men MORE trustworthy

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