Introduction
Human behavior is a complex phenomenon, influenced by an intricate network of interactions between brain regions, neurotransmitters and environmental factors. This article discusses the main areas of the brain involved in specific behaviors and the neurotransmitters that mediate these functions, based on the evidence presented by Rodrigues and Sanches (2022).
Brain Regions and their Functions
The human brain is composed of several specialized regions, each performing critical functions for behavior and cognition. The five main areas are the frontal, temporal, parietal, occipital, and insular lobes, each contributing uniquely to brain function.
Frontal Lobe: Responsible for planning, decision-making, impulse control and social behavior. Injuries to this area can lead to significant changes in personality and behavior, including increased impulsivity and aggression.
Temporal Lobe: Involved in memory, pattern recognition and auditory processing. Changes in this region can result in memory difficulties and hearing disorders.
Parietal Lobe: Crucial for sensory processing and spatial perception. Damage to the parietal lobe can affect coordination and sensory perception.
Occipital Lobe: Mainly associated with visual processing. Injuries to this area can lead to visual deficits.
Insular Lobe: Located below the frontal, temporal and parietal lobes, this lobe is involved in emotional perception and regulation of internal balance.
Neurotransmitters and Behaviors
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons, playing critical roles in modulating mood, behavior and cognitive functions.
Serotonin: Regulates mood, sleep and appetite. Inadequate serotonin levels are associated with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Serotonin also plays a role in aggression and impulsivity, with evidence suggesting that poor regulation of this substance can lead to aggressive behaviors (Rodrigues & Sanches, 2022).
Dopamine: Involved in reward, motivation and regulation of movement. Changes in dopamine levels are linked to disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia and substance dependence. Dopamine is crucial for feelings of pleasure and motivation, influencing reward-seeking behaviors.
Noradrenaline: Affects attention and stress response. Elevated norepinephrine levels are common in stressful situations and can lead to increased alertness and anxiety.
Acetylcholine: Essential for memory and learning. Disturbances in cholinergic neurotransmission are implicated in diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Genetic and Environmental Influence
Human behavior results from a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Studies show that genetic polymorphisms, such as those in the MAOA gene, interact with childhood adversity to predict aggressive behavior in adulthood. Analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in adolescents with drug addiction and antisocial behavior identified significant associations with the CHRNA2 and OPRM1 genes (Rodrigues & Sanches, 2022).
These biosocial interactions demonstrate that although genes provide a basis for behavioral predisposition, the environment plays a crucial role in the manifestation of these traits. The interaction between genetics and factors such as the quality of the family environment, exposure to stress and social support is fundamental to understanding behavioral variability between individuals.
Final Considerations
Understanding the interactions between brain regions, neurotransmitters, and environmental factors is essential for developing effective mental health interventions. The continued study of these interrelationships can provide valuable insights into the treatment of behavioral and emotional disorders, promoting a more integrated and personalized approach in neuroscience.
Reference:
RODRIGUES, FAA, & SANCHES, F. (2022). Brain Regions and Neurotransmitters Related to Key Behaviors. CPAH Science Journal of Health, 5(2).
NEVES, GSML et al. (2013). Sleep disorders: overview. Brazilian Journal of Neurology, 49(2).
BEAR, M.F., Connors, B.W., & Paradiso, M.A. (2017). Neuroscience: Uncovering the Nervous System. Artmed.
CALLEGARO, MM (2010). Neurobiology and evolution of psychopathy. Psychology Magazine.
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.