Neural Mechanisms in Aggression Flashcards
the limbic system
system in the brain which connects the brain stem to the cortex
role of the amygdala
responsible for quickly evaluatinf the emtional importance of sensory information and prompting an appropriate response
link b/w amygdala and aggression
if the amygdala malfunctions in any way due to a tumor, damage or atypical develeopment, aggressive behaviour may be more likely
role of the OFC
regulates the emotional responses driven by the amygdala
what happens if the OFC is damaged?
results in impulsivity and loss of control
role of serotonin
an NT involved in communication between neurons, having a widespread, usuually inhibitory effect on the brain
link between serotonin and aggression
normal levels are associated with behavioural control and usually has a calming effect on the brain, therefore low levels are associated with low behavioural control, imulsivity and aggression
tryptophan
an amino acid used to produce serotonin
who found those with smaller amygdals had increased aggression and violoence?
Pardini et al.
who found increased amygdala activity when Ps rejected unfai offers in a fake game?
Gospic et al.
who found decreased glucose metaolism in OFC in murderers?
Raine et al.
who found lower serotonin waste product levels and sleep irregularities in violent offenders?
Virkkunen et al.
how is serotonin related to sleep patterns?
involved in melatonin production
who investigated tryptophan in vervet monkeys?
Raleigh
who stdied tryptophan in humans?
Passamanti
