Explain how neurotransmission influences behaviour. Use relevant evidence about neurotransmitters, agonists or antagonists and link their effects to behaviour such as memory, emotion or motivation.
With reference to one relevant study, explain the effect of one agonist on behaviour.
Refer to the paper 1 section A markbands when awarding marks.
The command term "explain" requires candidates to give a detailed account, with reasons or causes, of how one agonist affects behaviour with reference to one relevant study.
An agonist is a molecule that can bind and activate a receptor to induce a biological reaction. Candidates may either use an example of an endogenous agonist, such as a neurotransmitter, or an exogenous agonist, such as a drug.
Relevant studies include, but are not limited to:
- Antonova et al. (2011) - acetylcholine and its effects on spatial memory consolidation
- Martinez and Kesner (1991) - physostigmine as an ACh agonist in the consolidation of spatial memory
- Passamonti et al. (2012) - serotonin as an agonist in the study of impulsive aggression
- Rogers and Kesner (2003) - acetylcholine and its effects on spatial memory consolidation
- Setiawan et al. (2013) - alcohol as a dopamine agonist and increased activity in the nucleus accumbens
If a candidate explains the effect of one agonist without reference to a relevant study, award up to a maximum of [5].
If a candidate addresses a relevant study but does not explain the effect of one agonist, award up to a maximum of [4].
If a candidate explains the effect of more than one agonist, credit should be given only to the first agonist.
If a candidate refers to more than one study, credit should be given only for the first study.