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I continue to be mystified at my own lack of motivation and lack of motivation in my bipolar friend. Both of us can sit around all day and do nothing...and not WANT to do anything. We both watch TV for hours on end, often boring news programs or reruns we've already seen. On days where I feel REALLY good (for whatever reason) I make big plans, like returning to school, or feeding the homeless in my area (there are lots), or writing a book about my life. Sometimes I make multiple big plans and tell everyone what I am planning, and then the lack-of-motivation thing kicks in and I drop the ball every time. I feel like people are getting sick of my doing this, but I honestly mean to follow through when I MAKE the plans. Maybe I need to learn to keep my mouth shut until I am actually working the plan? Sometimes I wonder, "Do I need less medication?" But in the study you are talking about, medication doesn't seem to be a factor. Sometimes I wonder, "Do I need more medication?" And if my doctor agrees, I try more, only to end up a medicated zombie, which is worse than a perceived lack of motivation.
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Dear Jerry: That study is fascinating. It seems to explain more of the important element of dopamine in schizophrenia. Many questions remain unanswered, however. The biochemical motivating factors in the illness seem to include dopamine inhibitors with treatment, but obviously some of the drug is used for motivation. The reward system was interesting. It almost begs the question ; what other chemical other than dopamine is involved ?
I am also of the opinion that cognitive and motivational testing are closely linked. You can't do something unless you understand what you're doing !
Yours truly,
Don Fraser
Hi Don,
I agree. I would be something of a false dichotomy to place all the answers in the direction of neurochemicals when we know how strong environmental factors are. Still, like you, I found this strand of research interesting on its own merits.
Thanks for commenting
Jerry