the reward circuit

Question 1

What is the function of the VTA?

Answer 1

Produces dopamine

Question 2

What is the function of the amygdala?

Answer 2

Processes emotions

Question 3

What is the function of the hippocampus?

Answer 3

Remembers.
It pairs behaviour with emotion.

Question 4

What is the function of the pre-frontal cortex?

Answer 4

Reasons
It decides to repeat a behaviour.

Question 5

What is the function of the nucleus accumbens?

Answer 5

Coordinates motive function.

Question 6

What is the function of muscles?

Answer 6

It repeats the behaviour.

Question 7

What order does the reward circuit go?

Answer 7

1. VTA
2. Amygdala
3. Hippocampus
4. Prefrontal Cortex
5. Nucleus Accumbens
6. Muscles

Question 8

What are the main neurotransmitters involved in the brain’s reward system?

Answer 8

Dopamine and serotonin.

Question 9

Describe the function of serotonin in the brain’s reward system.

Answer 9

Helps regulate appetite, mood and motivation. Is involved in reinforcement. Higher levels of serotonin help positive emotions and regulate the reward system.