The Psychology Podcast Finding Balance In The Age of Indulgence w/ Dr. Anna Lembke
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Jan 16, 2025 
Dr. Anna Lembke, a Stanford psychiatrist and addiction expert, explores the complexities of dopamine and its vital role in motivation and addiction. She discusses how to reset the dopamine system to reclaim personal control and transform desires into meaningful rewards. The conversation highlights the intricate relationship between pleasure and pain, and how modern habits can lead to compulsive behaviors. Lembke also emphasizes the importance of therapy for personal growth and understanding addiction, advocating for a balance of self-discipline and genuine connections.
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Dopamine's Role
- Dopamine is crucial for survival, telling us what to approach and avoid.
- It drives exploration and helps us learn from new experiences.
Liking vs. Wanting
- Dopamine is involved in both pleasure and motivation, or liking and wanting.
- With repeated exposure to stimuli, the brain adapts, leading to a focus on wanting.
Dopamine Pathways
- Different dopamine pathways exist, affecting various brain functions.
- Too much or too little dopamine can lead to issues like ADHD or schizophrenia.
