Final answer:
The neurotransmitter most associated with reward and reinforcement in nicotine dependence is dopamine, which is released in greater amounts when nicotine binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
Step-by-step explanation:
In nicotine dependence, the neurotransmitter most associated with reward and reinforcement is dopamine. Nicotine binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, stimulating an increase in dopamine levels in the brain's reward circuits. This enhances feelings of pleasure and reinforces the behavior, leading to addiction. Nicotine's effects are comparable to other addictive substances like cocaine, which also increase dopamine activity in the brain, albeit through different mechanisms.
Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective smoking cessation strategies. Therapies may include nicotine replacement options or psychological interventions that target the addiction's grip on the brain's reward system. The surge in dopamine is why users often find tobacco products highly addictive and struggle with quitting.