Vasopressin is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced in the hypothalamus. It regulates water retention, blood pressure, and — in the social domain — pair-bonding, territorial behavior, and boundary protection.
Key Functions
- •Pair-bonding — long-term attachment (especially in males)
- •Territoriality — defense of resources and relationships
- •Boundary protection — "us vs. them" modulation
- •Stress response — HPA axis modulation
In ONDA Life
Part 11 references the "Oxytocin-Vasopressin System" as the "biochemical balance between trust and boundary protection." Deep connection (oxytocin) requires healthy boundaries (vasopressin) — preventing either total merging or alienation.
Scientific Basis
Built on: Polyvagal Theory (Porges); Psychoneuroimmunology (Ader & Cohen); neuroplasticity research.