Brain Regions and Circuits

• amygdala 


  is responsible for assessing any eminent threat

  -    study shows that damage to the amygdala may result in abnormality to process fear
• left prefrontal cortex 


  is involved in motivation to approach others

  -    damage may result in loss of joy
• right prefrontal cortex 


  is involved in withdrawal and escape

  -    damage on the area may result in excessive mania and euphoria
• during the experience of intense emotion, two kinds of hormones are released:

  -    the release of epinephrine and the norepinephrine is common during the experience

  -    this results in increased alertness and arousal