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Blood-flow Rates Print E-mail


©Arlene R. Taylor PhD      Realizations Inc

PET scan studies have shown that behavioral differences between extreme extraverts and extreme introverts may result from using different brain pathways that influence where the individual directs his/her focus—internally or externally. Work by Dr. Debra Johnson, for example, has shown that brain blood-flow rates differ in extraverts versus introverts.

Extreme Extraverts 15%

• Lower rates of blood flow to the brain.

• Shorter, fast-acting, and less complicated blood flow patterns involve brain areas related to sensory processing (except for smell), variety, and novelty.

• Dominant pathway is activated by dopamine, a brain chemical that is implicated in most, if not all, addictive behaviors (e.g., Adrenalin, amphetamines, and cocaine can increase dopamine levels).

 

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70%

Extreme Introverts 15%

• Higher rates of blood flow to the brain (higher rates of internal stimulation).

• Longer, more complex blood flow patterns involve brain areas related to internal experiences (e.g., planning, pondering, remembering, recalling).

• Dominant pathway is activated by acetylcholine, a neuro-transmitter that affects one’s alertness and ability to pay attention.

  

 
 
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