Dopamine Plays A Role In Impulsive Behavior

By Jody Smith HERWriter

Rate This

Researchers at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging at University College London think they may have found some explanation for impulsive behavior. Their study showed that increased levels of dopamine which is a brain chemical linked with reward, can make us cave in to instant gratification, even when we wanted to control our desires.

The new data re-confirms what we already knew, that increased levels of dopamine cause us to lean toward impulsive behavior. Perhaps more importantly, it may bring us more understanding as to how dopamine dysfunction is involved in some disorders like ADHD.

"The research may help explain why people affected by conditions such as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), characterised by increased levels of dopamine in the brain, tend to show extremely impulsive behaviour. Similarly, it highlights why such behaviour can be a potential negative side-effect of L-dopa, a drug used to help alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease."

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/06/100629170922.htm

Effects of Sugar Consumption on ADHD Symptoms

12 Things You Should Never Say to Someone with Bipolar Disorder

12 Common Myths Surrounding Depression

Quiz: How Much Do You Know About ADHD?

Add a CommentComments

There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!

Champion

Jody Smith HERWriter View Profile Send Message

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.