PP 8 Social Brain, Addiction, Risk Taking

Question 1

Why do people think addiction may be advantageous?

Answer 1

Because it is seen in multiple populations

Question 2

What gene is addiction rooted in?

Answer 2

Reward seeking genes Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin

Question 3

Why do we take risks?

Answer 3

Predispositions to appreciate & seek new experiences & danger - thrills
Natural Reaction: cautious retreat from novel experiences – recall Fear

Question 4

What are some reasons why people get addicted?

Answer 4

Danger as pleasurable break from humdrum
Correlates with risk-embracing behavior
May be related to human cognitive development, communication, mythology,…
Enter world of ancestors: Dreamtime Australia, Yanomami Curare,

Question 5

What is frailty?

Answer 5

Age-related phenotype of physiological decline & losses

Question 6

According to the basic frailty index what are the 5 bio markers?

Answer 6

Reduced strength, endurance, walking speed,
physical activity/energy expenditure, recent unintended weight loss

Question 7

What is Senescence?

Answer 7

Cellular Process leading to cell-cycle arrest

Question 8

What causes Senescence?

Answer 8

Both intrinsic & extrinsic triggers: Recall p53/p21

Question 9

What does Senescence do?

Answer 9

Cells become nonresponsive to stimuli triggering mitosis