Neural and Hormonal Mechanisms in Aggression

Question 1

What is the limbic system?

(Role of the Limbic System)

Answer 1

Network of structures lying beneath the cortext

Question 2

How is the amygdala involed?

(Role of the Limbic System)

Answer 2

It is seen as the emotional centre in the brain

Plays a key role in how animals respond to environmental challenges

Question 3

How is the hippocampus involved?

(The Role of the Limbic System)

Answer 3

Involved in forming long-term memory

Memories allow animals to compare conditions of threat with past experiences

Allows animals to respond appropriately

Question 4

What is the effect of serotonin?

(The Role of Serotonin)

Answer 4

Widespread inhibitory effect throughout the brain

Question 5

What is argued about serotonin?

(The Role of Serotonin)

Answer 5

Low levels of serotonin remove the inhibitory effect, making people less in control of aggressive behaviour

Question 6

What does the ‘Basal Model of Testosterone’ suggest?

(The Role of Testosterone)

Answer 6

Testosterone causes a change in a person’s level of dominance

Question 7

What’s an example of the ‘Basal Model of Testosterone’?

(The Role of Testosterone)

Answer 7

A man with high level of testosterone will take part in figthing, as a way of expressing dominance