Passamonti et al. (2012) (SAQ)

Question 1

aim

Answer 1

to investigate the effect of reduced serotonin on the PFC when exposed to threat

Question 2

participants

Answer 2

30 healthy volunteers

Question 3

method

Answer 3

a double-blind, placebo controlled true experiment with repeated measures of drinks that lacked tryptophan and control condition received a placebo
participants lay in fMRI viewing angry, happy and neutral faces while their brain activity is measured

Question 4

results

Answer 4

in the reduced tryptophan condition during the angry face there was a disruption in the communication between the PFC and amygdala and a reduction of activity in the PFC

Question 5

conclusion

Answer 5

serotonin dysfunction might be linked with aggressive behavior as a it can reduce the ability to control impulsive decisions in a threatening situation

Question 6

key terms

Answer 6

neurotransmitter
serotonin
tryptophan
aggression
PFC
amygdala
fMRI

Question 7

neurotransmitter

Answer 7

a chemical that is transmitted through neurons, allow to respond to stimuli

Question 8

serotonin & tryptophan

Answer 8

a neurotransmitter associated with mood, sleep and impulsivity. has been studied to negatively correlate with aggressive behavior
tryptophan is an amino acid that helps build serotonin

Question 9

amygdala

Answer 9

the emotional center of the brain that controls the stress response

Question 10

Prefrontal Cortex

Answer 10

a part of the frontal lobe of the brain that controls decision making and impulsive actions

Question 11

fMRI

Answer 11

functional magnetic resonance image, measures brain activity