An adolescent diagnosed with a CD stole and wrecked a neighbor's motorcycle. Afterward, the adolescent was confronted about the behavior but expressed no remorse. Which variation in the central nervous system best explains the adolescent's reaction?
A) Serotonin dysregulation and increased testosterone activity impair one's capacity for remorse.
B) Increased neuron destruction in the hippocampus results in decreased abilities to conform to social rules.
C) Reduced gray matter in the cortex and dysfunction of the amygdala results in decreased feelings of empathy.
D) Disturbances in the occipital lobe reduce sensations that help an individual clearly visualize the consequences of behavior.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Adolescents with CD have been found to have significantly reduced gray matter bilaterally in the anterior insulate cortex and the amygdala. This reduction may be related to aggressive behavior and deficits of empathy. The less gray matter in these regions of the brain, the less likely adolescents are to feel remorse for their actions or victims. People with intermittent explosive disorder may have differences in serotonin regulation in the brain and higher levels of testosterone. Neuron destruction in the hippocampus is associated with memory deficits. The occipital lobe is involved with visual stimuli but not the processing of emotions.

An Adolescent Diagnosed with a CD Stole and Wrecked a Neighbor's