Brain Chemicals And Transmitter Substances
Brain Chemicals And Transmitter Substances
Brain Chemicals and Transmitter Substances Write a 1-page essay explaining the role that biology plays in the development of mood disorders, including one’s genetic vulnerability and the effects of different levels of brain chemicals and transmitter substances; define the term endogenous; and discuss the following psychological explanations for mood disorders: a. the psychoanalytic theory of repressed anger; b. the behavioral theory of learned helplessness; c. the cognitive theory that emphasizes self-defeating thinking patterns; and d. the effects of social and environmental stresses. Proper APA formatting is a requirement for all essay assignments. Cite at least three educational sources (one source may include the course textbook) in the essay.
Paper For Above instruction
The development of mood disorders encompasses complex biological and psychological factors that influence an individual's emotional health. Central to the biological aspect are brain chemicals and transmitter substances, which play vital roles in regulating mood, behavior, and cognition. An imbalance or abnormal functioning of these neurochemicals can predispose individuals to mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. Specifically, neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are closely linked to mood regulation; deficiencies or dysregulation in these chemicals can lead to depressive or manic symptoms. For instance, low serotonin levels have been associated with depression, highlighting the importance of neurotransmitter balance (Carson & Bedi, 2019).
Genetics significantly contribute to the vulnerability towards mood disorders. Family studies reveal higher prevalence rates among relatives of affected individuals, emphasizing genetic predisposition. Heritability estimates suggest that approximately 40-50% of the risk for depression may be hereditary (Kendler et al., 2016). Moreover, the term endogenous refers to biological processes or disorders that originate within the individual, primarily driven by internal factors such as genetic makeup or brain functions, as opposed to external influences (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Endogenous mood disorders are often characterized by a biological basis, including chemical imbalances and genetic vulnerabilities.
In addition to biological factors, psychological explanations provide insight into mood disorder etiology. The psychoanalytic theory posits that repressed anger and unresolved conflicts can manifest as depression, with suppressed emotions seeking release through emotional symptoms (Freud, 1917). Behavioral theories emphasize learned helplessness, where individuals subjected to uncontrollable stressors develop passivity and hopelessness, increasing the risk of depression (Seligman, 1975). Cognitive theories focus on maladaptive thinking patterns, such as pervasive self-criticism and hopelessness, which perpetuate and exacerbate mood disorders (Beck, 1967). Furthermore, social and environmental stresses, including traumatic events, social isolation, or financial hardship, can precipitate or worsen mood episodes by disrupting emotional stability and resilience (Hammen, 2005).
In conclusion, mood disorders emerge from an interplay of biological vulnerabilities, especially neurotransmitter imbalances and genetic predispositions, alongside psychological and social factors. Recognizing the endogenous nature of some mood disorders underscores the importance of biological treatments like medication, while psychological theories highlight the need for therapeutic interventions addressing thought patterns and emotional conflicts. An integrated understanding of these dimensions facilitates more effective prevention and treatment strategies, ultimately supporting individuals toward mental health recovery (Miklowitz & Davis, 2007).
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing.
Beck, A. T. (1967). Depression: Clinical, experimental, and theoretical aspects. Harper & Row.
Carson, S. H., & Bedi, G. (2019). Neurochemical underpinnings of mood disorders. Journal of Neuropsychiatry, 31(2), 123-132.
Freud, S. (1917). Mourning and melancholia. In J. Strachey (Ed. & Trans.), The standard edition of the complete psychological works of Sigmund Freud (Vol.14). Hogarth Press.
Hammen, C. (2005). Stress and depression. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 1, 293-319.
Kendler, K. S., Gardner, C. O., & Prescott, C. A. (2016). Toward a biosocial model of depression: The role of genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors. Psychological Medicine, 46(11), 2367-2377.
Miklowitz, D. J., & Davis, R. (2007). The psychological treatment of bipolar disorder: An overview. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 52(4), 199-205.
Seligman, M. E. P. (1975). Helplessness: On depression, development, and death. Freeman.