Wired for Fear Test

Front

What is the main role of the amygdala in the body's fear response?

Back

The amygdala is responsible for processing emotions, particularly fear, and plays a crucial role in the body's fear response.

Front

How do the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and amygdala work together during a threat alert?

Back

They collaborate to create a memory of the experience, helping the brain to recognize and respond to threats in the future.

Front

What happens to the body when a perceived threat is identified as a false alarm?

Back

The body can relax, as the initial fear response is no longer necessary.

Front

Why is fear considered a useful part of a person's survival mechanism?

Back

Fear helps keep individuals safe by alerting them to potential dangers, preventing them from walking into harm's way.

Front

What is the 'fight or flight' reaction?

Back

The 'fight or flight' reaction is a physiological response to perceived threats, where hormones are released to prepare the body to either confront the threat or escape from it.

Front

What hormones are typically involved in the 'fight or flight' response?

Back

Adrenaline and cortisol are the primary hormones released during the 'fight or flight' response.

Front

How does the amygdala influence memory formation related to fear?

Back

The amygdala enhances the encoding of memories associated with fear, making them more vivid and easier to recall.

Front

What role does the hippocampus play in fear responses?

Back

The hippocampus helps contextualize fear responses by providing the necessary background information and memories related to the threat.

Front

How can fear responses be conditioned?

Back

Fear responses can be conditioned through experiences where a neutral stimulus is paired with a threatening event, leading to a learned fear of the neutral stimulus.

Front

What is the significance of the prefrontal cortex in managing fear?

Back

The prefrontal cortex helps regulate emotional responses and can inhibit the amygdala's fear response, allowing for rational decision-making.