The abnormal activity of which neurotransmitter has been linked to traumatic events?

The abnormal activity of which neurotransmitter has been linked to traumatic events?

• A. Dopamine
• B. GABA
• C. Serotonin
• D. Norepinephrine

Answer: (D)

Traumatic events trigger the body's stress response, heightening arousal and vigilance. A key neurotransmitter here is norepinephrine, released to boost attention and readiness for action, and it also helps lock in emotionally charged memories. When norepinephrine activity becomes abnormal after trauma, it can lead to lasting hyperarousal, an exaggerated startle response, and intrusive recollections—hallmarks often seen in trauma-related conditions. While other neurotransmitters influence mood and anxiety more broadly—dopamine with reward signaling, GABA as an inhibitory brake, and serotonin in mood regulation—the link to the immediate arousal and memory encoding seen after traumatic events points most directly to norepinephrine.

Traumatic events trigger the body's stress response, heightening arousal and vigilance. A key neurotransmitter here is norepinephrine, released to boost attention and readiness for action, and it also helps lock in emotionally charged memories. When norepinephrine activity becomes abnormal after trauma, it can lead to lasting hyperarousal, an exaggerated startle response, and intrusive recollections—hallmarks often seen in trauma-related conditions. While other neurotransmitters influence mood and anxiety more broadly—dopamine with reward signaling, GABA as an inhibitory brake, and serotonin in mood regulation—the link to the immediate arousal and memory encoding seen after traumatic events points most directly to norepinephrine.