Upon noticing an object out of place and vulnerable to theft or damage, the visual cortex processes the sensory input and sends the information to the brain’s attentional networks. The prefrontal cortex evaluates the situation and deems it potentially threatening. This cognitive appraisal triggers the activation of the amygdala, which is responsible for processing fear and distress.
The amygdala’s activation leads to the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, by stimulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. These hormones prepare the body for action, inducing the “fight or flight” response. Meanwhile, dopamine is released in the prefrontal cortex and other brain regions, helping to maintain attention on the object and influencing decision-making processes.
Upon deciding to secure the object and resolving the potential threat, the prefrontal cortex reevaluates the situation, and the amygdala’s activation decreases. The successful resolution leads to a decrease in cortisol and adrenaline levels and an increase in neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with reward and positive reinforcement.
As the stress response subsides, the parasympathetic nervous system is activated, promoting relaxation and restoration of the body’s homeostasis. The experience is consolidated into long-term memory by the hippocampus, helping to learn and adapt to similar situations in the future.
Here is an emoji chain representing the scientific process:
👀➡️🧠(visual cortex)➡️🤔(prefrontal cortex)➡️😱(amygdala)➡️💥(HPA axis)➡️⚡️(cortisol & adrenaline)➡️🔍(dopamine & attention)➡️🏺🔒➡️😌(prefrontal cortex & amygdala deactivation)➡️🌈(dopamine & serotonin)➡️🍃(parasympathetic nervous system)➡️📚(hippocampus & long-term memory)