This study investigates the effects of oxytocin on social behavior in individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HF-ASD). Oxytocin, a hormone known to promote mother-infant bonds, has been suggested to play a role in the social deficits of autism. The researchers conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind within-subject experiment involving 13 individuals with HF-ASD. They used a simulated ball-tossing game and face perception tasks to assess social interaction and emotional responses. Results showed that oxytocin inhalation led to stronger interactions with socially cooperative partners, enhanced feelings of trust and preference, and increased gazing time on the eyes during face viewing. These findings suggest that oxytocin may have therapeutic potential in improving social behavior and affect in individuals with HF-ASD by enhancing social engagement and reducing fear or anxiety. The study also highlights individual variability in response to oxytocin and the need for further research to understand the underlying neural mechanisms.This study investigates the effects of oxytocin on social behavior in individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HF-ASD). Oxytocin, a hormone known to promote mother-infant bonds, has been suggested to play a role in the social deficits of autism. The researchers conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind within-subject experiment involving 13 individuals with HF-ASD. They used a simulated ball-tossing game and face perception tasks to assess social interaction and emotional responses. Results showed that oxytocin inhalation led to stronger interactions with socially cooperative partners, enhanced feelings of trust and preference, and increased gazing time on the eyes during face viewing. These findings suggest that oxytocin may have therapeutic potential in improving social behavior and affect in individuals with HF-ASD by enhancing social engagement and reducing fear or anxiety. The study also highlights individual variability in response to oxytocin and the need for further research to understand the underlying neural mechanisms.