Neural explanation for OCD Flashcards
(7 cards)
what are the 6 AO1 points you must know for the neural explanation of OCD?
-Neurotransmitters and OCD
-Low Serotonin Levels
-High Dopamine Levels
-Brain Structures – The Cortico-Striatal Circuit
-Orbitofrontal Cortex (OFC) Role
-Supporting Evidence from Brain Scans
What does the neural explanation suggest about the biological cause of OCD?
It proposes that abnormal functioning of neurotransmitters and brain structures contributes to the development of OCD symptoms, particularly obsessions and compulsions.
How is serotonin involved in OCD according to the neural explanation?
Low levels of serotonin are associated with impaired mood regulation, which may lead to increased anxiety and intrusive thoughts – symptoms commonly seen in OCD.
What is the role of dopamine in OCD?
Elevated levels of dopamine have been linked to compulsive behaviours. Dopamine may lead to exaggerated reward responses, encouraging repetitive actions to relieve anxiety.
What brain circuit is thought to malfunction in OCD?
The cortico-striatal circuit, sometimes called the worry circuit, includes the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), caudate nucleus, and thalamus, and is thought to be overactive in people with OCD.
What is the specific role of the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) in OCD?
The OFC is involved in detecting potential threats. In OCD, it may become hyperactive, sending excessive worry signals that trigger compulsive behaviours to reduce perceived danger.
What evidence supports the neural explanation of OCD?
Brain imaging studies (e.g., PET scans) have shown increased activity in the OFC and caudate nucleus of OCD sufferers. These findings support the idea that neural abnormalities play a role in the disorder.
