1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Borderline Personality

"Dopamine"

by Erin Johnston, L.C.S.W
for About.com

Updated: October 10, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Definition:

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter similar to adrenaline. Connected to the thought process, it affects a person’s movement, emotional response, and the capacity to feel pleasure and pain.

Shortages or Excessive Dopamine levels can cause:

  • A loss of the ability to think rationally, or psychotic thought
  • A suspicious or paranoid personality
  • Memory impairments
  • A lack of controlled muscle movements

Explore Borderline Personality

More from About.com

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Borderline Personality
  4. Understanding BPD
  5. BPD Glossary
  6. What is Dopamine?

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.