MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 254: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 254

4. An empirical basis for the addiction model of AN would most likely come from research that:

  • A. discovers that a majority of those diagnosed with AN have at least one parent who is alcohol dependent.
  • B. identifies high comorbidity of AN and tobacco dependence.
  • C. proves that there is an inverse relationship between dopamine production in the brain and the activity of the satiety center controlled by the hypothalamus in individuals with AN.
  • D. shows that those with AN have a higher mortality rate than individuals dependent on methamphetamines.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The hypothalamus is the brain structure associated with appetite regulation, while dopamine is the neurotransmitter associated with the pleasure pathways of the brain. Many illicit and addictive substances manipulate the dopamine system in some fashion, either by stimulating the release of dopamine or by inhibiting its absorption. If AN is a form of addiction, there would likely be an inverse relationship between the brain region that communicates satiety and the pleasure center of the brain; in other words, when the satiety center is not active (an individual with AN is not sated or full), dopamine is produced. This would indicate that the pleasure center of the brain is triggered when an individual with AN starves him- or herself, thus establishing a biochemical basis for the addiction model (choice C is correct). It is important to recognize that the context in which the passage mentions an addictions model suggests that AN is itself a type of addiction. It does not refer to mere correlations with addiction, such as family members with addictions (choice A is wrong) or comorbidity with other addictions (choice B is wrong). Finally, the possibility that AN is more lethal than substance abuse does not logically yield the conclusion that AN is also an addiction (choice D is wrong).

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