Neurobiology of Stereotyped Behavior

This is the first comprehensive guide devoted exclusively to the widely encountered class of behaviors that consist of repetitive, habitual, and apparently purposeless actions. The authors, leading experts in the field, bring to light the latest information on these stereotyped behaviors and examine their occurrence in psychiatric and neurological patients, as well as in response to stress, drug use, environmental factors, and other causes. The volume includes an historical perspective, information on the role of brain dopamine, the neuropsychological significance of effects of stimulant drugs, and the contribution of dopamine receptor subtypes. Yawning and grooming responses are considered, and are discussed in relation to coping with stress. 5-Hydroxytryptamine and stereotyped behavior is reviewed, and the stereotypy induced by drugs or by brain damage is given full analysis. Environmental factors are discussed and two full chapters are devoted to stereotyped responses and performance encountered in psychiatric and neurological patients.