Complex Brain Function Flashcards
(56 cards)
What is the primary function of the brain’s reward system?
To reinforce behaviors that are essential for survival and reproduction by providing pleasurable feelings.
True or False: The release of dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ is a key brain region involved in the reward pathway.
nucleus accumbens
Which neurotransmitter is primarily involved in the sensation of pleasure?
Dopamine
What role does the hypothalamus play in food intake?
It regulates hunger and satiety.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a component of the reward pathway? A) Ventral tegmental area B) Nucleus accumbens C) Amygdala D) Cerebellum
D) Cerebellum
What effect does food have on the brain’s reward system?
Food can activate the reward system, leading to feelings of pleasure.
True or False: All foods activate the brain’s reward system equally.
False
Fill in the blank: The __________ system helps to motivate individuals to seek out pleasurable experiences, including food.
mesolimbic
What is the relationship between pleasure and motivation in the context of food?
Pleasure from food motivates individuals to seek it out again.
Multiple Choice: Which hormone is associated with feelings of fullness? A) Ghrelin B) Leptin C) Insulin D) Cortisol
B) Leptin
What impact does chronic stress have on eating behavior?
Chronic stress can lead to overeating or unhealthy food choices.
True or False: The amygdala is involved in the emotional aspects of food-related behavior.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ connects the brain’s reward system to the body’s physiological responses to food.
hypothalamus
What is the role of ghrelin in appetite regulation?
Ghrelin stimulates appetite and food intake.
Multiple Choice: Which type of food is most likely to trigger a strong reward response? A) Vegetables B) Processed sugars C) Whole grains D) Lean proteins
B) Processed sugars
What is the significance of the reward prediction error in learning about food?
It helps individuals adjust their behavior based on the difference between expected and received rewards.
True or False: Eating behavior can be influenced by social and environmental factors.
True
Fill in the blank: __________ is a brain region that integrates sensory information related to food.
Insula
What is the term for the process by which the brain learns to associate certain foods with pleasure?
Conditioning
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a long-term regulator of food intake? A) Ghrelin B) Leptin C) Insulin D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What is the impact of sugar on the brain’s reward pathways?
Sugar can trigger the release of dopamine, reinforcing the desire to consume sweet foods.
True or False: The brain’s reward system only responds to food and not to other pleasurable activities.
False
Fill in the blank: The __________ is often referred to as the ‘pleasure center’ of the brain.
nucleus accumbens