Neurotransmitters Flashcards
What are neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the brain that transmit signals between neurons.
What does serotonin inhibit and in what area of the brain?
Under normal circumstances, serotonin inhibits the firing of the amygdala in the frontal areas of the brain.
What does the amygdala control?
The amygdala controls fear, anger, and emotional responses.
What effect does serotonin have on the brain, and what does a lack of it result in?
Serotonin has a calming influence on the brain. Low levels of serotonin can lead to difficulties in controlling impulsive and aggressive behaviour.
What does serotonin regulate, and what do lower levels of it result in?
Serotonin also regulates the pre-frontal cortex. Lower levels of serotonin affect responses to external stimuli, making it easier for a person to become aggressive and lose control over their responses.
How do low levels of serotonin effect impulsivity?
Low levels of serotonin impair the person’s ability to anticipate risk, leading to impulsive engagement in aggressive behaviour.
How do low levels of serotonin effect peoples control of responses?
Lower serotonin levels mean a person can’t control their responses in a ‘normal’ way. This lack of control is linked to the inhibitory function of serotonin in the brain.
