Kanwisher’s research explored the relationship between which psychological factor and mood disorders?
a) Serotonin
b) Dopamine
c) GABA
d) Norepinephrine
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a) Serotonin.
Kanwisher’s research is primarily associated with understanding the brain regions involved in various psychological processes, particularly focusing on brain structures and their connection to disorders like mood disturbances. While she is more widely known for her work on brain function and cognition, serotonin plays a central role in mood regulation. Low levels of serotonin are often linked to mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has significant effects on mood, sleep, appetite, and general well-being. It helps regulate feelings of happiness and calm, and when its levels are disrupted, individuals are more likely to experience conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood-related issues. Kanwisher’s research in cognitive neuroscience supports the idea that changes in brain activity, specifically in areas like the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, are associated with disruptions in serotonin systems that influence mood and emotional responses.
The connection between serotonin and mood disorders is crucial for understanding how various psychological conditions manifest and how they can be treated. Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed to help regulate serotonin levels, aiming to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Overall, while Kanwisher’s primary focus was more on cognitive and brain science, the serotonin system remains a critical piece in understanding the biological underpinnings of mood disorders. This research has greatly influenced clinical approaches to treating these conditions by targeting serotonin pathways, offering a biological perspective on mood regulation.