AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Serotonin is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Serotonin helps regulate mood, sleep patterns, sexuality, anxiety, appetite and pain.

Detailed explanation-2: -Until recently, sleep experts assumed that the transmitters histamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin worked together to regulate arousal and became inactive during REM sleep to keep the body from acting out dreams. In fact, each of these neurotransmitters plays a distinct role in the sleep-wake cycle.

Detailed explanation-3: -Based on electrophysiological, neurochemical, genetic and neuropharmacological approaches, it is currently accepted that serotonin (5-HT) functions predominantly to promote wakefulness (W) and to inhibit REM (rapid eye movement) sleep (REMS).

Detailed explanation-4: -Serotonin has a wide variety of functions in the human body. People sometimes call it the “happy” chemical because it contributes to well-being and happiness. Serotonin appears to affect mood, emotions, appetite, and digestion. As the precursor for melatonin, it helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and the body clock.