Reward Cognition

Reward cognition triggers the brain’s reward system processes needed to evaluate, anticipate, and experience rewards. Sensory stimuli (visual, auditory, olfactory, etc.) activate reward cognition to sharpen focused (eye on the prize) and decision-making to ensure a positive outcome. Reward cognitionin animals increases survival/reproduction by causing associative learning, approach/consummatory behavior, and positively valenced emotions. The evolution of reward mechanisms increased the adaptive fitness of animals—and humans.