In which psychological condition is a relative excess of dopamine implicated?

In which psychological condition is a relative excess of dopamine implicated?

• A. Parkinson's disease
• B. Schizophrenia
• C. Anxiety disorders
• D. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is linked to schizophrenia, where a relative excess of dopamine is indeed implicated in the pathophysiology of the disorder. In schizophrenia, it is believed that hyperactivity of dopamine transmission, particularly in certain brain regions, contributes to symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic features. This theory supports the idea that medications which antagonize dopamine receptors can help alleviate these symptoms, indicating that dysregulation of dopamine is a significant factor in the condition. In contrast, conditions like Parkinson's disease are primarily associated with decreased dopamine levels due to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. Anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder also involve different neurotransmitter systems, primarily focusing on serotonin and norepinephrine, rather than an excess of dopamine. Thus, understanding the role of dopamine in schizophrenia provides a clearer picture of the neurochemical imbalances underlying this complex mental health condition.

The correct answer is linked to schizophrenia, where a relative excess of dopamine is indeed implicated in the pathophysiology of the disorder. In schizophrenia, it is believed that hyperactivity of dopamine transmission, particularly in certain brain regions, contributes to symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic features. This theory supports the idea that medications which antagonize dopamine receptors can help alleviate these symptoms, indicating that dysregulation of dopamine is a significant factor in the condition.

In contrast, conditions like Parkinson's disease are primarily associated with decreased dopamine levels due to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. Anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder also involve different neurotransmitter systems, primarily focusing on serotonin and norepinephrine, rather than an excess of dopamine. Thus, understanding the role of dopamine in schizophrenia provides a clearer picture of the neurochemical imbalances underlying this complex mental health condition.