L12 - Biological Causes of OCD

Question 1

What are the two genes which contribute to OCD?

Answer 1

SERT

COMT

Question 2

OCD is classed as what?

Answer 2

Polygenic

Several candidate genes

Question 3

Role of COMT?

Answer 3

Regulates dopamine production

More common in those with OCD

Question 4

What levels of dopamine is OCD associated with?

Answer 4

High

Question 5

Role of SERT gene

Answer 5

Affects transportation of serotonin resulting in low moods

Gene mutation

Question 6

Evidence related to SERT gene

Answer 6

6 out of 7 family members with OCD had a mutation

Question 7

What parts of the brain are associated with dopamine and serotonin?

Answer 7

Frontal lobe

Question 8

High dopamine levels have been linked to

Answer 8

Over-activity in basal ganglia area which is linked to motor function and learning

Question 9

Animal study about dopamine involved and showed what?

Answer 9

Gave animals dopamine

Resembled behaviour similar to compulsive and repetitive ones

Question 10

What level of serotonin causes what?

Answer 10

Low levels
Malfunction in caudate nucleus
Development of OCD

Question 11

Evaluation points?

Answer 11

Reductionist
Deterministic
Ignores behavioural approach which uses SD to treat/2 process model
Can use and have used drugs to treat it
Objective and scientific testing
Unclear if neurotransmitter levels are cause or effect

Question 12

+ related to study

Answer 12

Patients given Risperidone to lower dopamine levels

Some OCD symptoms alleviated