Lecture 8 - Limbic System 2

Question 1

pathway part 1

Answer 1

sensory input from environment (unprocessed)
-> thalamus -> sensory cortex & amygdala
amygdala gives rapid response (protective/impulsive)

Question 2

pathway part 2

Answer 2

-> limbic associated cortex interprets stimulus (compares with previous experience)
-> prefrontal cortex formulates action plan
-> amygdala

Question 3

pathway part 3

Answer 3

-> hippocampus integrates action plan

Question 4

pathway part 4

Answer 4

amygdala has all info for appropriate emotional response

Question 5

pathway part 5

Answer 5

amygdala sends message to
1. brainstem nuclei - emotional reactions (facial expression/cerebral cortex full alert/fight, flight, freeze)
2. hypothalamus - physical response by 2 mechanisms
- increased sympathetic nerve activity (adrenaline/raised HR and BP/blood supply diverted from skin to brain and muscle)
- release of stress hormones to blood (CRH/ACTH/cortisol to activate brain)

Question 6

what are the effects of long term cortisol release?

Answer 6

• hypertension
• peptic ulcers
• depression

Question 7

what are the effects of stress on immune system?

Answer 7

• immunosuppression
• reduction in immune response
• increased risk of infection
• reduction in natural killer cells, lymphocytes and antibody immunoglobin A

Question 8

what mental disorders can occur from chronic stress?

Answer 8

• PTSD
• anxiety disorders
• phobias
• aggression
• eating disorders