Using One or More Examples, Explain Effects of Neurotransmission on Human Behaviour

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Neurotransmitters are chemicals that regulate signals between neurons or nerve cells. Neurotransmitters are released from the end terminals of a neuron. An electrical impulse in the neuron will stimulate the terminal of the cell and it will secrete the neurotransmitter through the synapse, the gap between the neurons, in order to act on a neighboring neuron. Serotonin produced in the central nervous system has various functions, including the regulation of mood, appetite, sociability, suicidal behavior, inhibition/impulsivity, aggression, sleep, and some cognitive functions such as memory and learning. In complex animals, such as mammals, serotonin is related to social dominance. If there is a perceived abundance or scarcity of food or if the animal has a low or high social rank his serotonin levels will be altered, affecting his mood and his reproduction. If the environment is perceived as low in resources, the animal will have a depressed mood, which may motivate him to find other environments. From this we can learn, that if you are depressed, it might be a good idea to change your environment. Serotonin is also known to stimulate appetite, and lower amounts of serotonin have been found in patients with anorexia nervosa. The serotonin release is highest in the morning, which is the reason why the motivation to eat is the strongest during that time for many people. Low levels of serotonin are also related to intense spiritual experiences, a possible explanation of the relationship between fast and religion. Further on, low levels of serotonin are related to anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behavior. Obsessive-compulsive behavior is a common trait among patients with anorexia nervosa. Serotonin can even affect our perception of fairness. In experiments, participants are more likely to accept unfair offers if they have normal serotonin levels compared with
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