When men and women smoke, their brains respond differently.
In men’s brains, dopamine was released consistently and rapidly in the region related to the reward a person feels when they take drugs such as nicotine.
For women, the same level of consistent and rapid release of dopamine took place, but for them, it was dumped into a part of the brain that’s critical to forming habits.
This information can help design effective treatments that are tailored for both men and women, especially with the educational process.
When smokers understand the connection between their behavior and the dynamics in their brains, they can develop the “me” versus “it” mentality that can empower them toward change.
Knowledge can shift the balance of power dynamics. Once smokers learn how the nicotine is controlling them, they can fight back. Use every trick you’ve got to stop smoking!
Claudia
Join me on Facebook at Dr. Claudia McCulloch.
At DrClaudia.net, click on the "Ask Me" button and send me a question.
Sign up for the Sunday newsletter. Get the week's 5 Parenting Pointers and blog posts delivered to your digital door. Don't miss a thing!
When men and women smoke, their brains respond differently.
In men’s brains, dopamine was released consistently and rapidly in the region related to the reward a person feels when they take drugs such as nicotine.
For women, the same level of consistent and rapid release of dopamine took place, but for them, it was dumped into a part of the brain that’s critical to forming habits.
This information can help design effective treatments that are tailored for both men and women, especially with the educational process.
When smokers understand the connection between their behavior and the dynamics in their brains, they can develop the “me” versus “it” mentality that can empower them toward change.
Knowledge can shift the balance of power dynamics. Once smokers learn how the nicotine is controlling them, they can fight back. Use every trick you’ve got to stop smoking!
Claudia
Join me on Facebook at Dr. Claudia McCulloch.
At DrClaudia.net, click on the "Ask Me" button and send me a question.
Sign up for the Sunday newsletter. Get the week's 5 Parenting Pointers and blog posts delivered to your digital door. Don't miss a thing!
