Question

The emotional center of the brain that is activated when a person with an addiction sees a person, place, or thing that reminds him of their addiction (e.g., needle, slot machine, white powder) is called the:

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is: the amygdala

Explanation:

Addictive behaviors and withdrawal effects are strongly related to emotional symptoms. Addiction occurs primarily in the brain, where various regions are involved. The brain region most commonly associated to addiction behaviors and patterns is the amygdala, which affects both memory and emotions.

The formation of memories in the brain is accompanied by association with feelings. When a person develops an addiction, the memory of incurring in the addiction triggers a pleasant emotional state, which leads to the repetition of the behavior and ultimately to the formation of habits.