All Articles by Erin Falconer, MS
Dr. Erin Falconer's field of expertise is the brain and mind. He has published several refereed journal articles that have a neuroscience/psychology focus. He is currently in marketing and communications for a 'brain biotech' company that offers brain medicine and health solutions to clinicians, researchers, pharmaceutical companies and US managed care. He holds MS degree (Neuroscience) where he investigated the role of stress and hormones on the growth of new neurons in the adult brain (neurogenesis). He has since wrote and designed studies investigating the Placebo Effect in Parkinson's Disease and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He recently completed his PhD dissertation, for which he delineated a brain model of PTSD using behavioral assessments, functional and structural neuroimaging and electrophysiological brain measurements.
Stressed By His Short Allele
The serotonin (neurochemical) system in the brain has long been a target for interventions aimed at reducing depression and stress. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are often used to balance mood and counteract high levels of anxiety. It is not surprising then that scientists are now finding that individual differences in the genetic makeup of this serotonin system may have a significant impact on one’s vulnerability to mental illness.Individual differences in the genetic makeup of the serotonin system have been shown to increase one’s vulnerability to depression, anxiety and other psychiatric conditions, particularly if individuals are exposed to stressful events in their lives.
Look Me in the Eyes – From Eye Contact to “Fear Blindness”
Eye contact is commonly considered a sign of self-confidence and a means for emotional connection. In contrast, a person who averts their gaze is often considered shy, fearful, embarrassed or lying. Many a self-help manual has touted the power of eye contact, with direct eye contact suggested to help one quickly gain an individual’s attention, create an emotional connection and make a lasting impression. While these are quite common assumptions, scientists are only beginning to unravel the cognitive and brain processes that may underlie and corroborate the significance of eye contact.
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Future Posts
Latest Posts
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