Amygdala (Amygdaloid Complex): Definition, History and References
The amygdala, or amygdaloid complex, is a brain structure located in the temporal lobe of the brain, which plays an important role in the processing of emotions, such as fear and aggression. It is composed of a number of nuclei, including the medial, basolateral, and cortical nuclei, which are connected to other areas of the brain, such as the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. The amygdala is believed to be involved in the formation of emotional memories and the regulation of attention.
The terms “amygdala” and “amygdaloid complex” were first introduced in 1837 by German anatomist and psychiatrist Johann Christian Reil. Since then, the amygdala has been studied extensively, as it is believed to be involved in various psychological processes, such as emotion, memory, and attention.
Recent research has suggested that the amygdala may be involved in the processing of social cues. Studies have shown that the amygdala is more active in response to fearful facial expressions than neutral ones. In addition, research has suggested that the amygdala may be involved in the processing of emotions, such as anger, sadness, and joy.
In summary, the amygdala is a brain structure located in the temporal lobe of the brain, which is involved in the processing of emotions, such as fear and aggression, as well as the regulation of attention. It is composed of a number of nuclei, which are connected to other areas of the brain, such as the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. Recent research has suggested that the amygdala may be involved in the processing of social cues and the processing of emotions, such as anger, sadness, and joy.
References
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Cahill, L., & McGaugh, J. L. (1998). Mechanisms of emotional arousal and lasting declarative memory. Trends in Neurosciences, 21(7), 294-299.
Kelley, A. E., & Maguire, E. A. (2002). Finding the self? An event-related fMRI study. Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 14(5), 785-794.
Pessoa, L. (2008). On the relationship between emotion and cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(2), 148-158.
Ressler, K. J., & Mayberg, H. S. (2007). Targeting abnormal neural circuits in mood and anxiety disorders: From the laboratory to the clinic. Nature Neuroscience, 10(9), 1116-1124.