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What is dopamine?

PsychologyLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

Dopamine is a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) involved in motivation, reward, and movement. It's released when we anticipate or experience something rewarding, helping drive us toward goals — and it's central to habits and learning. A neurotransmitter that signals reward and motivation.

Key things to understand

  1. A neurotransmitter that signals reward and motivation.
  2. Released in anticipation of rewards, not just on receiving them.
  3. It shapes habits, learning, and focus.
  4. Imbalances are linked to addiction, Parkinson's, and mood disorders.

People also ask

What does dopamine do?
It drives motivation and reward, helps control movement, and reinforces behaviors and habits.
Is dopamine the 'pleasure chemical'?
More accurately the 'wanting'/motivation chemical — it spikes in anticipation of reward, not only enjoyment.
How is dopamine linked to addiction?
Addictive substances and behaviors hijack the dopamine reward system, reinforcing compulsive use.