Emotions and the Brain

Question 1

Components of the Limbic System

Answer 1

Thalamus, Hypothalamus, Sensory cortex, Hippocampus, Amygdala

Question 2

Thalamus

Answer 2

Responsible for relaying motor and sensory signals to the cerebral cortex

Question 3

Hypothalamus

Answer 3

Involved in the control of emotion, especially our stress response along with controlling motivated behaviours (drinking, eating).

Question 4

Hippocampus

Answer 4

Regulation and expression of emotion, consolidation of explicit memories and recalling relevant information.

Question 5

Amygdala

Answer 5

Central to emotion (especially fear and aggression). Large role in emotional regulation and memory recollection and storage.

Question 6

Prefrontal Cortex

Answer 6

Underside connects brain regions involved in emotional processing and production. Appears to have a role in regulating and modifying emotions.

Question 7

LeDoux’s Short Route

Answer 7

Emotional Stimulus -> Thalamus -> Amygdala -> Emotional Response

Fast and automatic response pathway that triggers a response before you are consciously aware of the threat. Allows for a quick reaction even if the response might be less accurate.

Question 8

LeDoux’s Long Route

Answer 8

Emotional Stimulus -> Thalamus -> Sensory Cortex -> Hippocampus -> Amygdala -> Emotional Response

Slower more deliberate pathway. Information is processed at a higher cognitive level. Allows a more thoughtful and accurate response that involves conscious processing for more complex evaluations of potential threats.