Dopamine neurons in the midbrain become active in a previously undetected way when an animal considers a reward that is changing in value. Read More
Researchers found specific neurons in the striosome that help mice learn to avoid negative experiences. Read More
Compared to adults, children continue to explore other options than using knowledge to capitalize on reward, to see if the value has changed. Children approach exploration systematically to make sure they don't miss anything. Read More
Older children have stronger neural responses to rewards over punishments later in the afternoon. In younger children, this pattern is reversed. Read More
Cannabis use in males appears to alter sperm before mating, increasing the risk of their offspring developing brain abnormalities in areas associated with mood, memory, learning, and reward. Read More
Researchers analyzed the relationship between reward and effort in achieving goals and identified two critical stages in the decision-making process. Read More
Reward does not improve visual perception learning unless it is followed by a good night's sleep. Read More
Fear extinction memories and feelings of reward are both stored in neurons that express the Ppp1r1b gene in the posterior of the basolateral amygdala. Read More
When faced with complex choices, people show bursts of exploration before settling into preferred options of higher value. Read More
Inflammation appears to reduce reward response in females. Reduced activity in the brain's reward system is a key component of anhedonia, the loss of enjoyment in activities, a core feature of depression. The findings may explain why depression is more prevalent in women than in men. Read More
Positive reinforcement by reward is important for learning based behaviors, but masks the expression of underlying knowledge and true animal intelligence. Read More
Unexpected rewards boost memories of specific events. The findings may have implications for treating memory problems associated with depression. Read More
