Discuss the dopamine hypothesis and comment on the three possible roles the neurotransmitter may play in schizophrenia
What will be an ideal response?
The dopamine hypothesis holds that excessive amounts of dopamine in the brain lead to the development/worsening of psychotic symptoms. Support for this theory stems from chemical research over the last 50 years. For example, substances that increase the amount of dopamine in the neural synapses (i.e., amphetamines, levodopa) appear to have the effect of producing psychotic symptoms or worsening psychotic symptoms if they are already present. Conversely, substances that decrease dopamine levels appear to have the effect of decreasing psychotic symptoms.
It is difficult to state conclusively what role dopamine plays in the disorder. Researchers theorize three possible scenarios. First, excess dopamine may actually be the cause of the disorder. Second, chronic stress that may develop as a result of dealing with the symptoms of schizophrenia over a long period of time may lead to brain abnormalities. These changes in brain structure may cause an increase in dopamine levels. Finally, both the disorder and excessive amounts of dopamine may be the result of some unknown outside variable(s).
You might also like to view...
Research suggests that a small percentage of people (about 5-10%) are by nature loners—and indifferent to social contact
Indicate whether the statement is true or false
If Huxley is ethically opposed to the creation of "designer babies" through DNA manipulation, he would likely be strongly opposed to
a. maternal blood sampling. b. chorionic villus sampling. c. amniocentesis. d. preimplantation genetic diagnosis.
Which term describes the combination of several influences on an outcome?
A. behaviors B. personalities C. interactions D. environments
Sam and Nina are in the delivery room, waiting for their child's birth. The doctor tells them that the child's head has just passed through the cervix and has entered the vagina. Nina is in the
a. first stage of labor. b. second stage of labor. c. third stage of labor. d. fourth stage of labor.