Temperament | Description | Hypothesized related neurotransmitter | Associated disorder(s) |
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Novelty seeking | Searching out novel stimuli and reacting positively to them; high levels can lead to being impulsive, avoiding frustration, and easily getting angry | Dopamine | With a high level, disorders that involve impulsive or aggressive behaviors |
Harm avoidance | Reacting very negatively to harm and avoiding it whenever possible | Serotonin | With a high level, anxiety disorders |
Reward dependence | Degree to which past behaviors that have led to desired outcomes in the past are repeated | Norepinephrine | With a low level (in combination with high impulsivity), substance use disorders |
Persistence | Making continued efforts in the face of frustration when attempting to accomplish something. | Possibly dopamine | With a low level, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder |