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Studies of neglected children showed lower levels of the neurochemical ______, which is essential in supporting warm social interactions.

a) Dopamine
b) Serotonin
c) Oxytocin
d) Endorphins

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Oxytocin is the neurochemical found at lower levels in neglected children, which affects their capacity for warm social interactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The neurochemical associated with supporting warm social interactions and that is found to be at lower levels in neglected children is oxytocin. This chemical plays a crucial role in social bonding, sexual reproduction, and during and after childbirth. Neglect in childhood has been linked to disruptions in oxytocin levels, which can have long-term effects on an individual's ability to form social bonds and manage stress.

While dopamine is crucial for cognitive functions, reward, and motor control, and serotonin involves mood and emotion regulation, and endorphins are linked with pain relief and pleasure, it is oxytocin that is most closely related to social interaction. Oxytocin is released in the brain in response to social interactions, and it plays a role in promoting bonding, trust, and empathy.

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