Neurobiological correlates of cognitions in fear and anxiety: a cognitive-neurobiological information-processing model

Abstract

We review likely neurobiological substrates of cognitions related to fear and anxiety. Cognitive processes are linked to abnormal early activity reflecting hypervigilance in subcortical networks involving the amygdala, hippocampus, and insular cortex, and later recruitment of cortical regulatory resources, including activation of the anterior cingulate cortex and prefrontal cortex to implement avoidant response strategies. Based on this evidence, we present a cognitive-neurobiological information-processing model of fear and anxiety, linking distinct brain structures to specific stages of information processing of perceived threat.

Figure 1

A Cognitive-Neurobiological Information Processing Model of Fear and Anxiety. Note: The Figure depicts cognitive processing of threat on the psychological, biological, and psychophysiological level from earlier to later processing stages. Note: PFC: prefrontal cortex. ACC: anterior cingulate cortex. Depending on the threat assessment, the errors can depict excitatory or inhibitory influences.