When researchers performed an fMRI on participants looking at pictures of someone they were in love with, they found that the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and caudate nucleus were activated, and that they were more strongly activated the more intensely participants indicated that they loved the person in the photo. These particular areas of the brain are associated with the __________.
A) release of serotonin
B) release of dopamine
C) experience of physical arousal
D) onset of puberty

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) and caudate nucleus are part of the brain's reward center and are associated with the release of dopamine. This indicates that seeing a loved one activates the reward center and releases dopamine, which may be why people feel good and happy when they see someone they love.

When Researchers Performed an FMRI on Participants Looking at Pictures