ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on brainstem functions that play an important role in affect regulation. The brainstem and the core of the cerebellum are highly active from birth. The reticular activation system and the cranial nerves extend throughout the brainstem and connect to the cerebellum. Neocortical activity is co-ordinated and regulated by the reticular activation system, and the anatomy and chemistry of this part of the brainstem are established and differentiated during the foetal stage, long before the cortex is formed. The chapter discusses some of the main structures in this system, a system that matures through early interaction, is involved in the regulation of some of the key neurotransmitters, and contains the basic structures for orientation and body representation. It describes the main structures and the neurotransmitters they emit. The neuromuscular system is in charge of sensing and controlling all the small facial muscles.
