Which of the following best explains why LSD produces complex sensory effects according to psychological theories of emotion and perception?

• A. LSD alters neurotransmitter activity, especially serotonin, which disrupts normal sensory processing in the brain.
• B. LSD increases the production of adrenaline, leading to heightened emotional responses but not sensory changes.
• C. LSD blocks dopamine receptors, causing a reduction in sensory input to the brain.
• D. LSD enhances the function of the amygdala, resulting in improved memory but unchanged sensory perception.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of neurotransmitters in sensory processing and perception. Neurotransmitters like serotonin play a crucial role in how the brain processes sensory information and regulates emotions.
2. Step 2: Recognize that LSD primarily affects serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor subtype, which leads to altered sensory experiences and perception.
3. Step 3: Analyze how disrupting normal serotonin activity can cause the brain to process sensory inputs differently, resulting in complex sensory effects such as hallucinations or altered visual and auditory perceptions.
4. Step 4: Compare the other options by considering their effects on neurotransmitters and brain regions: increased adrenaline affects emotional arousal but not sensory processing; blocking dopamine receptors typically reduces sensory input but is not the main action of LSD; enhancing amygdala function relates more to emotion and memory rather than sensory changes.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best explanation is that LSD alters serotonin neurotransmitter activity, disrupting normal sensory processing and leading to the complex sensory effects experienced.