Scientists have found that the presence of a naturally occurring chemical in human brains is associated with increased niceness and decreased risk of antisocial behavior. The researchers, from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), found that people with high levels of the chemical, oxytocin, were more likely to be kind and helpful towards others, and less likely to engage in antisocial behaviors such as cheating or stealing.

The study was published in the journal "Nature Neuroscience" and involved over 100 participants who were given a series of tasks designed to measure their levels of oxytocin and their social behavior. The researchers found that individuals with high levels of oxytocin were more likely to donate money to charity, help people in need, and trust others. They were also less likely to cheat or steal, even when there was a financial incentive to do so.

Previous studies have shown that oxytocin is released in the brain during social interactions and physical contact, such as hugging or kissing. It is also known to be released during breastfeeding, childbirth, and orgasm. This suggests that oxytocin may play an important role in social bonding and prosocial behavior.

The new study provides further evidence for the role of oxytocin in human behavior, and suggests that this chemical may be a potential target for the treatment of antisocial behavior.