Autonomic Nervous System Recovery and Psychopathology

Abstract

A theory of avoidance learning with regard to the autonomic nervous system (ANS) for psychopathology is suggested. In schizophrenia, avoidance learning is facilitated, with an ANS which responds 1/ quickly and to a great extent, and 2/ an abnormally quick rate of recovery. The avoidance learning deficit in asocial behaviour is characterized by a hyporeactive ANS and a slow recovery rate. The reinforcement value in relation to recovery rate is discussed, and also that recovery rate of ANS may be inherited.