Neural explanation for OCD

Question 1

What are the factors of the neural explanation for OCD?

Answer 1

The role of the damaged cordate nucleus and the orbitofrontal cortex
The role of low serotonin
The role of high dopamine

Question 2

How does the role of the damaged cordate nucleus and orbitofrontal cortex contribute to the neural explanation of OCD?

Answer 2

Several areas of the frontal lobes of the brain are thought to be abnormal in people with OCD. The caudate nucleus normally suppresses signals from the orbitofrontal cortex. In turn, the OFC sends signals to the thalamus about things that are worrying, such as a potential germ hazard. When the caudate nucleus is damaged, it fails to suppress minor worry signals and the thalamus is alerted, which in turn sends signals back to the OFC, acting as a worry circuit.

Question 3

How does the role of low serotonin contribute to the neural explanation of OCD?

Answer 3

Serotonin plays a role in preventing behaviour repetition and therefore low levels of this neurotransmitter may be linked to the compulsions that can be displayed as a symptom of OCD.

Question 4

How does the role of high dopamine contribute to the neural explanation of OCD?

Answer 4

Dopamine creates anticipation for rewards, this is known as the dopaminergic reward system. The continuous activation of the ventral striatum creates an undirected expectation for reward. This unfulfilled expectation causes an anxious feeling and an urge to satisfy the void. As a result, learned rituals are practised to generate this reward, however, the reward is likely to do little and the ritual needs to be repeated.

Question 5

Is there supporting research for the neural explanation of OCD?

Answer 5

Ursu and Carter monitored brain activity in 15 OCD patients using fMRI scans.
There was hyperactivity in the orbitofrontal cortex, which has been linked to OCD.

Question 6

Are there theoretical flaws of the neural explanation of OCD?

Answer 6

There could be other variables, not just brain abnormalities, and we cannot be sure what has an impact.
It could be OCD that causes the changes in brain abnormality, not the brain abnormality causing OCD.

Question 7

Does the neural explanation of OCD have practical applications?

Answer 7

Helped the 2-3% of society that suffers from OCD.
Antidepressant drugs like Proxac and valium work by changing the neurochemical balance in the brain.
Symptoms of OCD can be relieved by adjusting the chemical signals.

Question 8

Is the neural explanation of OCD scientific?

Answer 8

Neurotransmitters are scientifically tested in the body using urine tests for ones associated with OCD.
Objective way to prove the neurochemical levels are linked to symptoms of OCD.