ABSTRACT
This chapter considers a useful theory for conceptualising the impetus to explore J. Panksepp’s SEEKING system. Perhaps the clearest exemplification of the role of dopamine on the impetus to explore is Panksepp’s SEEKING system. The principal unusualness of the case is that, despite damage to the neuroanatomical regions subserving the SEEKING system, many other functions were relatively well preserved, enabling the patient to engage in psychotherapy. PA was initially referred for community neuro-rehabilitation in January 2009, and he received occupational therapy, and group, individual and family psychotherapy over the course of three years. However, his use of occupational and vocational therapy was limited. A one-year hiatus in service involvement was brought to an end as his family reported a sudden resumption of mental activity, six years post-injury. The historic vulnerability of a family member, revealed through a disclosure of past abusive actions perpetrated by the patient’s stepfather, triggered significant levels of anger and rage in the patient.
