Final answer:
The prefrontal cortex is underactive and the amygdala is overactive among individuals with social anxiety disorder. The prefrontal cortex's role is to exert control over emotions processed by the amygdala, which, when dysregulated, contributes to heightened anxiety.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among individuals with social anxiety disorder, the prefrontal cortex is underactive while the amygdala is overactive. The correct answer to the question is b) Prefrontal cortex; amygdala. The amygdala is involved in emotional processing, particularly emotions such as fear and anxiety.
It plays a critical role in classical conditioning, the attachment of emotional value to memories and learning processes. An increased activity in the amygdala is associated with learning to fear and is observed in individuals at risk for or suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. On the other hand, the prefrontal cortex is associated with higher cognitive functions such as decision making, social behavior, and moderating social behavior. When the prefrontal cortex is underactive, it may not exert enough control over the amygdala, allowing for heightened anxiety responses, which is a characteristic of social anxiety disorders.