Affectionate communication can suppress immunity: trait affection predicts antibodies to latent Epstein-Barr virus

• Autores: Kory Floyd, Colin Hesse, Justin P. Boren, Alice E. Veksler
• Localización: Southern communication journal, ISSN 1041-794X, Vol. 79, nº 1, 2014, págs. 2-13
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • The communication of affection in close relationships has been linked empirically to multiple physical and mental health benefits that are attributable largely to its stress-alleviating effects. Because affectionate communication fr equently involves tactile contact of an inti- mate nature, however, it may also elevate vulnerability to opportunistic illness and infection, increasing the chances for immune system suppression. Using a sample of 52 healthy adults in cohabiting romantic relationships who were seropositive for latent human herpesvirus-4 (also known as the Epstein-Barr virus), the present study documented that self-reported trait expressed affection predicts antibody titers to Epstein-Barr virus viral capsid antigen complex, indicating viral replication and suppressed cell-mediated immunity.