A new study by Vanderbilt University indicates that individuals who have a tendency to take unnecessary risks and/or abuse substances may be influenced by an inability to process the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine allows individuals to experience pleasure. Those who have trouble processing the neurotransmitter may engage in a greater number of dopamine-producing activities in an effort to achieve a normal level of satisfaction. David Zald, associate professor of psychology and lead author of the study, commented on the findings:

"We've found that the density of these dopamine autoreceptors is inversely related to an individual's interest in and desire for novel experiences. ...The fewer available dopamine autoreceptors an individual has, the less they are able to regulate how much dopamine is released when these cells are engaged. Because of this, novelty and other potentially rewarding experiences that normally induce dopamine release will produce greater dopamine release in these individuals."

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

Labels: addicts, risky_behaviors, dopamine

Posted By: Aspen Education Group