Biological Explanations of sz: Dopamine hypothesis explanation

What is dopamine?

Chemical substance (neurotransmitter) manufactured in the brain that transmits messages between neurons (brain cells). It works differently in sz patients. Associated with the reward system in our brain and some areas of the brain that are important for speech and movement.

What does the dopamine hypothesis state?

That sz results from an imbalance of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. Suggests that sz is caused by too much dopamine - ot too many dopamine receptors - in specific areas of the brain.

What is dopamine important for?

Regulates mood and attention. Linked to sz in a number of ways. Functioning of several brain systems that may cause symptoms of sz - in particular the cortex and subcortex.

What do neurotransmitters allow?

The brain to transmit messages between neurons.

What do dopamine systems in the mesolimbic pathway contribute towards?

The positive symptoms of sz (such as hallucinations)

What does dopamine function in the mesocortical pathway be responsible for?

The negative symptoms, such as avolition (lack of motivation) and alogia (speech poverty)