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A self in the mirror: mirror neurons, self-referential processing, and substance use disorders
David B Newlin1, Rachael M Renton
1RTI International, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. dnewlin@rti.org
Substance Use & Misuse
|July 2, 2010
Summary
The human mirror neuron system (MNS) may involve separate brain modules crucial for self-processing, potentially explaining its role in addiction. A modular view could clarify MNS functions in drug abuse.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Psychology
Background:
- Mirror neurons and the mirror neuron system (MNS) respond to observed and executed actions.
- The precise role and existence of the MNS in humans remain debated, with conflicting neuroimaging and electroencephalography findings.
- Self-referential processing is increasingly implicated in the etiology of drug abuse and addiction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose that the fronto-parietal MNS comprises distinct modules within a self-referential processing system.
- To explore the implications of this modular self-referential system for understanding drug abuse and addiction.
- To suggest a modular brain organization approach may resolve ambiguities surrounding the MNS and its relation to addiction.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on mirror neurons, the MNS, and neuroimaging findings in humans.
- Theoretical integration of MNS research with self-referential processing theories of addiction.
- Conceptual analysis advocating for a modular model of brain function.
Main Results:
- The fronto-parietal MNS may not be a single unified system but rather disparate modules.
- These modules could be integral components of a broader self-referential processing network.
- This network is hypothesized to play a significant role in the development and maintenance of drug abuse and addiction.
Conclusions:
- A modular perspective on the human MNS offers a potential resolution to conflicting research findings.
- Viewing the MNS as part of a self-referential system provides a novel framework for addiction research.
- Adopting a modular approach to brain organization may enhance our understanding of complex behaviors like drug abuse.
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