Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS)

Reward deficiency syndrome (RDS) is part of ADHD, PTSD, and other spectrum disorders, including addiction and compulsive/impulsive behavior. Described as an “octopus of behavioral dysfunction,” RDS shows a breakdown of the brain reward cascade in neurotransmission due to genetic/epigenetic (how behavior/environmental factors alter genetic expression) influences. Neurotransmission deficiencies interfere with pleasure derived from powerful physiological drives. It may be foundational in species evolution and survival, with many neurotransmitters and aspects of our genetic makeup influencing our reasons for behaving the way we do.