Neural and Hormonal Mechanisms Flashcards
What does the limbic system do?
Limbic system structures are linked to emotional behaviours such as aggression
What structures does the limbic system comprise of?
Hypothalamus Thalamus Amygdala Hippocampus Cingulate Gyrus
Why is the amygdala an important structure?
Key role in human/ non-humans in how an animal assesses and responds to environmental threats and challenges
Research support for the role of the Amygdala: Gospic - The Ultimatum Game
- Found that most aggressive reactions were associated with a fast and heightened response by the amygdala.
- When Benzodiazepines were taken before the game, halved the number of aggressive reactions and decreased amygdala activity.
What is Serotonin?
A neurotransmitter.
Normal levels in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) = high self control.
When levels are normal it has inhibitory effects on the brain; it slows down and dampens neuron activity.
Link between serotonin and aggression?
Low levels of serotonin is linked with reduced self control and increased aggression.
Research support for low serotonin = high aggression: Virkkunen
He found when comparing serotonin levels of violent impulsive and non violent impulsive offenders that levels of serotonin in violent offenders were significantly lower.
What is testosterone?
The hormone responsible for development of masculine features.
Link between testosterone and aggression?
High levels of testosterone is linked to aggression. High levels regulate social behavior via influence on the areas of the brain involved in aggression
Research support for high levels of testosterone = aggression: Dolan’s prison study
He found a positive correlation between testosterone levels and aggressive behaviour in male offenders.
HOWEVER most suffered from psychopathy and had histories of aggressive behaviour.
