Scientists Say: Amygdala

Amygdala (noun, “ah-MIG-dah-la”, plural “amygdalae”)

This part of the brain plays a role in memory, decision making and emotions, such as fear. Each person has an amygdala on either side of their head. They are located near the center of the brain a little above the ears. The amygdala gets its name from the Greek word “amygdalo.” It means “almond.” Each amygdala is shaped a little like the tasty nut.

In a sentence

Kids with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have smaller amygdalae than people without ADHD.

Follow Eureka! Lab on Twitter