Chpt. 5 & 9 Flashcards
What are the four major dopamine pathways in the brain and their characteristics?
Mesolimbic & Mesocortical: Reward-related behavior
Nigrostriatal: facilitates voluntary movement
Tuberohypophyseal: small group of cells in the hypothalamus gives rise to this pathway
What types of functions/behaviors is dopamine known to mediate?
Reward related, voluntary movements, and controlling the secretion of the hormone prolactin
What is addiction?
A relapsing disorder, characterized by compulsion to seek and take the drug, loss of control in limiting intake, and emergence of a negative emotional state when access to the drug is prevented.
It can include physical dependence, behavior, and periods of remission.
How does the DSM-5 define a substance use disorder?
Cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating that the individual continues using the substance despite significant substance-related problems.
What biological factors are involved in addiction risk?
Genes, neurobiology, brain structure & function, development, & neurotransmitters
What psychosocial factors are involved in addiction risk?
Environment, early life trauma, & mental health disorders
How does positive reinforcement contribute to addiction?
The rewarding effects of a drug strengthens the tolerance for that drug.
How does negative reinforcement contribute to addiction?
Individuals may use drugs to avoid withdrawal symptoms, creating a cycle where drug use is no longer just for fun.
What role does dopamine play in drug reward and reinforcement?
It’s a key neurotransmitter in the brain’s reward system. Drug use increases dopamine release, and the dopamine system starts to associate drug use with pleasure, increasing cravings for that drug.
What role does incentive sensitization play in addiction?
It suggests that addiction develops because drugs cause lasting changes in the brain’s reward system.
What neuroadaptive responses are involved in the development of addiction?
Tolerance, withdrawal, and impaired decision making
What is the proposed involvement of the prefrontal cortex in addiction?
The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is involved in decision-making, impulse control, and self-regulation. In addiction, this area undergoes significant dysfunction: impaired self-control, reduced executive functioning, increased compulsivity.
What determines the schedule assigned to a drug?
Potential for Abuse, Accepted Medical Use, Potential for Dependence, & Drug Safety
