Mental Health

Dopamine Disruption Impairs Mentalizing Abilities

BRAINS MATTER –

July 22, 2024 – “The main implication of our work is that in disorders with dopamine dysfunctions, in addition to producing the primary symptoms associated with these disorders (such as motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease), the dopamine imbalance also affects individuals’ socio-cognitive abilities,” added Schuster. “This work could have implications for the way in which we treat Parkinson’s in the future,

 A recent study has uncovered a significant link between the brain chemical dopamine and our ability to understand and attribute mental states to ourselves and others, a process known as mentalizing. Conducted by researchers at the University of Birmingham, the study demonstrates that altering dopamine levels in the brain affects these mentalizing abilities. These findings are detailed in the journal PLOS Biology.

The study was motivated by the observation that people with disorders characterized by dopamine dysfunction, such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Tourette’s syndrome, and schizophrenia, often struggle with mentalizing. This impairment can lead to severe social challenges, including social isolation and a decreased quality of life.

CONTINUE@PsyPost

C Luke

Recent Posts

Three Arrested/Charged in Connection with Liam Payne’s Death

VIDEO – WAY TOO YOUNG – Nov. 7, 2024 - The prosecutor’s statement said that…

1 day ago

“A Change Is Gonna Come” – Sam Cooke

VIDEO – MUSICAL INTERLUDE – 1963 - An edited clip from the motion picture, “Malcolm…

4 days ago

Jamey Johnson on Sobriety: ‘I Barely Survived’

BULLSH#T? – Nov. 1, 2024 - I had my last drink in September 2011. Then…

4 days ago

Women Challenging The Stigma of “sex & love addiction” Support Groups

NPR AUDIO – XOXOXOXXOXOXOXO – Oct. 30, 2024 - “I’m a sex and love addict.…

4 days ago

Sharing Addiction Story ‘so worth it,’ says First Lady Kathryn Burgum

HONESTY MATTERS – Oct. 29, 2024 - Holth said he’s been in recovery for more…

4 days ago

Toxic FOREVER Chemicals in Menstrual Pads

WOMEN IN DANGER? – Nov. 2, 2024 - Carefree menstrual pads are contaminated with toxic…

4 days ago