biological approach to explaining ocd

candidate genes

specific gene markers that make peoples vulnerable to developing OCD

often related to serotonin and dopamine

SERT gene

linked to lower levels of neurotransmitter serotonin as it regulates serotonin transfer across the synapse

COMT gene

associated with production of an enzyme which regulates dopamine

results in higher levels of dopamine which is common in ocd patients

neural explanations

Frontal lobe and OFC

serotonin

Frontal lobe and OFC

involved in control of behaviour, logical thinking and decision making

increased activity in this region may prevent patients from stopping their compulsive behaviours

role of serotonin

ocd is linked to low levels of serotonin

low levels prevent normal transmission of mood relevant info from neuron to neuron

dopamine has implicated ocd, high leve;s are associated with compulsive behaviour