Document Type

Honors Thesis

Major

Psychology

Advisor(s)

Cynthia Erdley

Committee Members

Sandra Caron, Jordan LaBouff, Shannon McCoy

Graduation Year

May 2024

Publication Date

Spring 5-2024

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relations of hormonal contraceptive use to emotional functioning in biological women. Hormonal contraceptives contain one of two hormones, progestin and estrogen, which are key regulatory hormones in women. Estrogen and progestin help to regulate brain networks and processes related to changes in stress response, cognition, and emotion regulation. Participants included 86 female college students, ages 18-25, who responded to measures that assessed hormonal contraceptive use, depressive symptoms, relationship quality, and mood. Results revealed no significant differences in depressive symptoms or mood states between women using hormonal contraceptives (51% of the sample) and those not using hormonal contraceptives (49% of the sample). However, negative relationship quality was significantly correlated with depressive symptoms among hormonal contraceptive users. These findings suggest that while hormonal contraceptive use may not be significantly related to depressive symptoms or mood states, there may be an association between relationship quality and emotional well-being in young women who use hormonal contraceptives. Further research is warranted to explore the complex interplay among hormonal contraceptives, relationship dynamics, and emotional functioning.

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