Minutus

In a message dated 11/3/05 12:47:58 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,
rosemarychyde@mindspring.com writes:

Without seeing the patient, which Rochelle of course has had the advantage
of doing, and without knowing her, it just struck me abstractly that
continuing or resuming a childish behavior (thumb sucking) could possibly have been
this person's response to the stress of feeling unwanted, which I agree
absolutely is a crucial symptom.
May I make the suggestion that adults who indulge in "childish" behaviors
such as thumb sucking or hair chewing, etc. are addicted to the endorphin
response that such behaviors elicit in adults. Rocking, foot tapping, and
repetitive behaviors (such as "runner's high") all release the very addictive
endorphins into the blood stream and make the patient feel better. Endorphins
reduce stress, calm the being, lower lactic acid levels in the muscle tissue,
lower respiration and heart rate, and allow smooth muscles to slide more
smoothly. The opiate receptors in the brain respond to endorphins. Just a
suggestion to look at.
Dr. Carol Bernat
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Carol,
Thank you for sharing this information on the addiction to endorphin
response; I've been following the posts on this topic because I have a 5
year old cat who, within a couple months of the arrival of a new kitten,
began sucking his tail. At first, I feel he did it because he felt
forsaken or unwanted or jealous - and his behavior toward the kitten
reflected that - but now he and the kitten get along great, yet he still
stucks his tail. However, now, he not only sucks his tail after he's
received attention and I've stopped petting him, but also does it
immediately after meals. Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for the
"addiction" perspective - my cat hasn't responded to a few remedies and
this gives me a new perspective to think about.

In Peace & Harmony,

Darla
________________________________

On Behalf Of
behaviors
endorphin
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