Army basic training appears to reshape how the brain processes reward. The stress experienced during basic combat training may dampen the brain’s ability to respond to rewarding outcomes. | AI News Digest
A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry reveals that stress from Army basic combat training can diminish the brain's reward processing capabilities. Researchers observed a decline in neural signals related to reward among Army National Guard recruits after a rigorous 10-week training program. This suggests that real-world stressors significantly impact how the brain interprets both positive and negative feedback, potentially affecting mental health and resilience. The study highlights the importance of understanding the effects of stress on emotional functioning, particularly in military contexts. While the findings raise questions about long-term implications, they also suggest that individuals with higher reward sensitivity may exhibit greater resilience to stress.
