3. Truth and brain functioning
We have investigated this topic a great deal at the Everyoung.com Research Centre. The core of this exploration lies in understanding how telling the truth strengthens the prefrontal cortical circuits and their connections to the limbic system and the brain's reward system and how these mechanisms can become disrupted in addiction. The key concept here is simple: truth-telling is an actual antidote to the brain mechanics responsible for maintaining the environment necessary for continuing addictions and spending a more significant portion of one's time in sub-optimal states.
The Prefrontal Cortex and Limbic System
The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is crucial for executive functions, which include decision-making, impulse control, managing emotional responses from the limbic system, and considering the long-term consequences of actions. The limbic system, often called the "emotional brain," includes the amygdala and hippocampus, which play a crucial role in emotional regulation, memory, and reward processing.
The Reward System
Central to the discussion of addiction is the brain's reward system, particularly the role of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. The reward system includes areas such as the ventral tegmental area (VTA), nucleus accumbens, and parts of the prefrontal cortex. This system reinforces behaviors essential for survival (e.g., eating, social bonding) by providing pleasurable sensations in response to these activities.