Motivational processes are complex and multifaceted, with both directional and activational
aspects. Behavioral activation and exertion of effort are functions that enable organisms to …

Elevated impulsivity is a symptom shared by various psychiatric disorders such as
substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder …

Drug addiction is a neuropsychiatric disorder with grave personal consequences that has an
extraordinary global economic impact. Despite decades of research, the options available to …

In this chapter we provide an overview of the pharmacological and circuit mechanisms that
determine the willingness to expend effort in pursuit of rewards. A particular focus will be on …

The modulation of dopamine release from midbrain projections to the striatum has long
been demonstrated in reward-based learning, but the synaptic basis of aversive learning is …

Individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) are often plagued by
debilitating neurocognitive impairments and affective alterations; the pathophysiology …

Our ability to engage and perform daily activities relies on balancing the associated benefits
and costs. Rewards, as benefits, act as powerful motivators that help us stay focused for …

Attention deficits are common in psychiatric and neurological disorders. The transdiagnostic
nature of impaired attention suggests a common set of underlying neural circuits. Yet, there …

Neurons in the lateral hypothalamus expressing the neuropeptide Hypocretin, also known
as orexin, are known critical modulators of arousal stability. However, their role in the …

Serotonin modulates many motivated behaviours via multiple receptor subtypes. Agonists at
5-HT 2 C receptors have potential for treating behavioural problems associated with obesity …