amygdala
the region of the brain that is the seat of emotions
The amygdala is a small, almond-shaped structure located in the temporal lobe of the brain. It plays a crucial role in processing emotions and guides the behaviour related to emotional responses.
The amygdala is primarily responsible for the processing and regulation of negative emotions like fear, anxiety, and aggression. It receives information from the senses, particularly the eyes and ears, and quickly evaluates whether the stimulus situation is threatening or not. In case of a threat, it triggers a release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, leading to the activation of the fight or flight response.
Furthermore, the amygdala is also involved in the formation of long-term memories, especially those associated with strong emotions. It is known to actively participate in the consolidation of emotional memories and plays a crucial role in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Malfunctioning of the amygdala can lead to various psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, autism, and schizophrenia. In some cases, genetic mutations may also cause an abnormal development of the amygdala, leading to aggression and difficulty in social interactions.
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