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Bonobos and Chimpanzees Use Sex to Alleviate Stress

3/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study from Durham University uncovers that bonobos and chimpanzees both turn to sexual behaviors to ease social stress, blurring the lines between their previously thought distinct actions. Observations in African sanctuaries revealed chimpanzees engaging in sexual contact during tense moments, hinting at a shared evolutionary strategy that dates back over six million years.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study from Durham University uncovers that bonobos and chimpanzees both turn to sexual behaviors to ease social stress, blurring the lines between their previously thought distinct actions. Observations in African sanctuaries revealed chimpanzees engaging in sexual contact during tense moments, hinting at a shared evolutionary strategy that dates back over six million years.