Question

Anxiety disorders have been linked to low activity of the ________ neurotransmitter.

• A. Gamma Aminobutyric Acid
• B. Serotonin
• C. Dopamine
• D. Cortisol

Hint:

Remember this simple association for exams: Anxiety $\leftrightarrow$ Low GABA. Depression $\leftrightarrow$ Low Serotonin. Schizophrenia (positive symptoms) $\leftrightarrow$ High Dopamine. Parkinson's Disease $\leftrightarrow$ Low Dopamine.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Concept Overview:
Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals regulating mood, emotion, and behavior. Imbalances are linked to psychological disorders.

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA): Primary inhibitory neurotransmitter; reduces neuronal excitability, promoting calmness.

Serotonin: Affects mood, sleep, appetite, and learning. Low levels correlate with depression.

Dopamine: Involved in reward, pleasure, motivation, and motor control; linked to addiction and schizophrenia.

Cortisol: A stress hormone, not a neurotransmitter.

Step 2: Explanation:
Anxiety involves excessive neuronal activity. GABA inhibits this activity. Insufficient GABA activity leads to under-inhibition and over-arousal, characteristic of anxiety disorders. Medications like benzodiazepines enhance GABA effects.

Step 3: Conclusion:
Anxiety disorders are associated with reduced Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) activity.