<p>Curiosity is not just something you're born with (nature) or something you learn from your surroundings (nurture). It's a mix of both.</p>

Curiosity Comes from Nature and Nurture

<p>There are two types of curiosity: one that comes when you're surprised or confused, and another that happens when you're excited about discovering something new.</p>

Two Kinds of Curiosity

<p>Your brain has a special chemical called dopamine that gets you excited about exploring new things. It's like the spark that makes you want to discover something new.</p>

Dopamine and the Thrill of Curiosity

<p>Your brain is like a muscle; it can grow and change throughout your life. It's not set in stone. You can keep learning new things as long as you practice and repeat them.</p>

Brain Power and Learning

<p>Curiosity is like a superpower that helps your brain grow and learn. To make the most of it, you should get to know yourself better and be aware of what makes you curious. This way, you can keep growing and learning throughout your life.</p>

Curiosity Helps Your Brain Grow

<h3>Key points</h3><UL><LI>Genes and environment influence curiosity, a trait that plays a vital role in brain growth and learning.</LI><LI>Dopamine and novelty-seeking behavior are linked to curiosity, influencing our urge to explore.</LI><LI>Neuroplasticity and epigenetics empower lifelong learning, with repetition as a critical factor.</LI></UL><img alt="taniadimas / Pixabay" height="228" src="https://cdn2.psychologytoday.com/assets/styles/article_inline_half_caption/public/field_blog_entry_images/2023-11/parents-and-sons-1699502_1280.jpg?itok=CSq3DIqY" title="taniadimas / Pixabay" width="342"><div>Source: taniadimas / Pixabay</div><p><em>Co-authored by Nevia Fersula</em></p><p>Curiosity, an innate psychological trait, is influenced by both genetic predispositions and environmental factors.</p><p dir="ltr">While <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/genetics" title="Psychology Today looks at genetics" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">genetics</a> alone cannot fully explain the extent of one's curiosity, it plays a significant role in shaping individual differences. However, it is not merely a matter of <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/nature-vs-nurture" title="Psychology Today looks at nature versus nurture" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">nature versus nurture</a>.</p><div dir="ltr">
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    </div><p>In pursuing knowledge and understanding, a burning passion drives our thirst for exploration, propelling us toward endless possibilities.</p><p>To cultivate and amplify curiosity, we must actively engage in certain practices. By asking thought-provoking questions, fostering heightened awareness, and consciously embracing our innate inquisitiveness, we unlock the potential to expand our intellectual pursuits.</p><p>We can fuel our thirst for knowledge by connecting our passions to other intriguing concepts, allowing curiosity to guide us toward profound discoveries and personal growth.</p><h2>A Curious Mind Has Different Flavors </h2><p dir="ltr">Meet Sylvia, a curious 30-year-old on a quest to unravel the mysteries of her mind. Her thirst for knowledge drives her forward, pushing her to explore <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/neuroscience" title="Psychology Today looks at neuroscience" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">neuroscience</a>. As she delves into this field, she discovers the potential of our brains, forever adaptable and eager to carve new neural pathways through neuroplasticity.</p><p dir="ltr">She stumbles across <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/epigenetics" title="Psychology Today looks at epigenetics" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">epigenetics</a>, which becomes a guiding light in her journey, granting her the power to awaken dormant genes and create fresh neurons. Lifelong learning becomes an ever-present companion, allowing Sylvia to absorb new <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/wisdom" title="Psychology Today looks at wisdom" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">wisdom</a> whenever her heart desires. But she soon learns the secret to truly mastering this knowledge: repetition.</p><p>Intriguingly, Sylvia also uncovers the role of curiosity, as scientific studies reveal its profound influence on the brain. Perceptual curiosity ignites regions tied to primal needs, like hunger or thirst, while epistemic curiosity sparks the anticipation of rewards.</p><p>These revelations emphasize the intricate dance between curiosity and our brain's remarkable capacity for growth and learning.</p><div dir="ltr">
      <span dir="ltr">article continues after advertisement</span>
    </div><h2>The 2 Fundamental Types of Curiosity</h2><p>Perceptual and epistemic curiosity are the two fundamental types of curiosity. It is crucial to discern between them by recognizing our state of mind when curiosity strikes.</p><p>Perceptual curiosity arises from a discomforting sensation caused by unexpected or contradictory information. On the other hand, epistemic curiosity is pleasurable, fueled by the anticipation of rewards, activating the dopaminergic system in our brains. A thirst for knowledge drives this curiosity and is at the core of all scientific exploration.</p><p>While perceptual curiosity may wane as we age, epistemic curiosity remains constant. However, it can lie dormant if we are unaware of its existence or assume that we are not inherently curious. Our beliefs about ourselves profoundly influence our behaviors and how we engage with the world.</p><p>Therefore, cultivating self-discovery and self-awareness is crucial to unlocking our full potential.</p><p dir="ltr">Curiosity manifests itself in various ways, and the topics that pique our interest may change over time, depending on age and occupation. Each individual explores their curiosity uniquely, with different intensities and diverse focus areas. Embracing our curiosity with <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/confidence" title="Psychology Today looks at confidence" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">confidence</a> enables us to embark on a journey of continuous growth and fulfillment in life.</p><div dir="ltr">
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    </div><h2>Neuroplasticity Powers Curiosity </h2><p>Neuroscience sheds light on the potential of our brains, showcasing their adaptability and ability to forge fresh neural pathways through the phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. One of the key drivers behind this extraordinary capacity is epigenetics, which empowers us to activate genes that facilitate the creation of new neurons. Thus, the mechanism supporting lifelong learning remains ever-present, enabling us to absorb new information whenever we desire.</p><div>Neuroscience Essential Reads</div><img src="https://cdn2.psychologytoday.com/assets/styles/manual_crop_1_1_75x75/public/teaser_image/blog_entry/2023-10/pexels-pixabay-40568.jpg?h=46e13e5a&amp;itok=5uwyxow4" width="75" height="75" alt="" title="Pexels/Pixabay"><p>The crucial factor for successful retention and integration of new knowledge is repetition, ensuring the experiences are encoded and deemed significant enough for our brain's internal filing system.</p><p>Interestingly, scientific studies employing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have discovered that curiosity is vital in this process: Perceptual curiosity triggers the activation of brain regions typically associated with conflicts or primal needs, like hunger or thirst. Epistemic curiosity stimulates areas linked to the anticipation of rewards. These findings further emphasize the profound interplay between our innate curiosity and our brain's incredible capacity for growth and learning.</p><h2>Feeding Our Curious Mind With Dopamine </h2><p dir="ltr">Novelty seeking is an intriguing trait that fuels our natural curiosity to explore unfamiliar stimuli and environments. Extensive research has found evidence supporting the role of <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/dopamine" title="Psychology Today looks at dopamine" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">dopamine</a> in modulating this behavior. The neurotransmitter dopamine activates neurons and stimulates specific regions that receive dopaminergic input when we encounter something novel.</p><div dir="ltr">
      <span dir="ltr">article continues after advertisement</span>
    </div><p>Scientists have discovered that dopamine is crucial in driving our urge to explore new surroundings. It enhances the value we attribute to novel experiences, making them more enticing. Intriguingly, excessive novelty-seeking behavior, often associated with impulsivity and behavioral addictions, has been linked to abnormally high dopamine levels.</p><p dir="ltr">Dopamine seems more connected to what we anticipate from a reward than the reward itself. As we engage in repetitive activities that yield predictable outcomes, our brain gradually becomes accustomed to the expected reward, leading to a decrease in dopamine release. This phenomenon, known as <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/hedonic-treadmill" title="Psychology Today looks at hedonic adaptation" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">hedonic adaptation</a>, highlights the intricate relationship between dopamine and the anticipation of rewards.</p><h2>Coaching as a Neuroplastician </h2><p dir="ltr">We embark on self-discovery and growth when engaging in a transformative <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/coaching" title="Psychology Today looks at coaching" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">coaching</a> process. As coaches, neuroplasticians excel at nurturing curiosity within their clients. By tapping into their inner motivations, interests, and <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/appetite" title="Psychology Today looks at appetite" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">appetite</a> for novelty, they can ignite a process of self-discovery that leads to personal transformation.</p><p><strong dir="ltr"><em dir="ltr">Nevia Fersula, MA, is a <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/leadership" title="Psychology Today looks at leadership" hreflang="en-US" dir="ltr">leadership</a> coach</em>.</strong></p><p>References</p><p>Valentina Vellani, Lianne P de Vries, Anne Gaule, Tali Sharot (2020). National Library of Medicine, A selective effect of dopamine on information-seeking.</p><p>Vincent D Costa, Valery L Tran, Janita Turchi, Bruno B Averbeck (2014), National Library of Medicine, Dopamine modulates novelty-seeking behavior during decision making.</p><p>Bryan Kolb, Allonna Harker, Robbin Gibb (2017). National Library of Medicine, Principles of plasticity in the developing brain.</p><p>Celeste Kidd, Benjamin Y Hayden (1915). National Library of Medicine. The Psychology and Neuroscience of Curiosity.</p><div data-hide-large-count-items="true"><button type="button" data-show-large-count-items="true" dir="ltr">
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These ideas show how curiosity, your brain, and the chance to grow and learn are all connected.

Curiosity's dance with the brain shapes our minds, expanding neural networks.

Understand yourself and those around you.

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Science & Nature

<ul><li>Genes and environment influence curiosity, a trait that plays a vital role in brain growth and learning. </li><li>Dopamine and novelty-seeking behavior are linked to curiosity, influencing our urge to explore. </li><li>Neuroplasticity and epigenetics empower lifelong learning, with repetition as a critical factor. </li> </ul>

<p><em>Co-authored by Nevia Fersula </em> </p>

<p>Curiosity, an innate psychological trait, is influenced by both genetic predispositions and environmental factors. </p>

<p>While <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/genetics">genetics </a>alone cannot fully explain the extent of one's curiosity, it plays a significant role in shaping individual differences. However, it is not merely a matter of <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/nature-vs-nurture">nature versus nurture </a>. </p>

<p>In pursuing knowledge and understanding, a burning passion drives our thirst for exploration, propelling us toward endless possibilities. </p>

<p>To cultivate and amplify curiosity, we must actively engage in certain practices. By asking thought-provoking questions, fostering heightened awareness, and consciously embracing our innate inquisitiveness, we unlock the potential to expand our intellectual pursuits. </p>

<p>We can fuel our thirst for knowledge by connecting our passions to other intriguing concepts, allowing curiosity to guide us toward profound discoveries and personal growth. </p>

<p>Meet Sylvia, a curious 30-year-old on a quest to unravel the mysteries of her mind. Her thirst for knowledge drives her forward, pushing her to explore <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/neuroscience">neuroscience </a>. As she delves into this field, she discovers the potential of our brains, forever adaptable and eager to carve new neural pathways through neuroplasticity. </p>

<p>She stumbles across <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/epigenetics">epigenetics </a>, which becomes a guiding light in her journey, granting her the power to awaken dormant genes and create fresh neurons. Lifelong learning becomes an ever-present companion, allowing Sylvia to absorb new <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/wisdom">wisdom </a>whenever her heart desires. But she soon learns the secret to truly mastering this knowledge: repetition. </p>

<p>Intriguingly, Sylvia also uncovers the role of curiosity, as scientific studies reveal its profound influence on the brain. Perceptual curiosity ignites regions tied to primal needs, like hunger or thirst, while epistemic curiosity sparks the anticipation of rewards. </p>

<p>These revelations emphasize the intricate dance between curiosity and our brain's remarkable capacity for growth and learning. </p>

<p>Perceptual and epistemic curiosity are the two fundamental types of curiosity. It is crucial to discern between them by recognizing our state of mind when curiosity strikes. </p>

<p>Perceptual curiosity arises from a discomforting sensation caused by unexpected or contradictory information. On the other hand, epistemic curiosity is pleasurable, fueled by the anticipation of rewards, activating the dopaminergic system in our brains. A thirst for knowledge drives this curiosity and is at the core of all scientific exploration. </p>

<p>While perceptual curiosity may wane as we age, epistemic curiosity remains constant. However, it can lie dormant if we are unaware of its existence or assume that we are not inherently curious. Our beliefs about ourselves profoundly influence our behaviors and how we engage with the world. </p>

<p>Therefore, cultivating self-discovery and self-awareness is crucial to unlocking our full potential. </p>

<p>Curiosity manifests itself in various ways, and the topics that pique our interest may change over time, depending on age and occupation. Each individual explores their curiosity uniquely, with different intensities and diverse focus areas. Embracing our curiosity with <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/confidence">confidence </a>enables us to embark on a journey of continuous growth and fulfillment in life. </p>

<p>Neuroscience sheds light on the potential of our brains, showcasing their adaptability and ability to forge fresh neural pathways through the phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. One of the key drivers behind this extraordinary capacity is epigenetics, which empowers us to activate genes that facilitate the creation of new neurons. Thus, the mechanism supporting lifelong learning remains ever-present, enabling us to absorb new information whenever we desire. </p>

<p>The crucial factor for successful retention and integration of new knowledge is repetition, ensuring the experiences are encoded and deemed significant enough for our brain's internal filing system. </p>

<p>Interestingly, scientific studies employing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have discovered that curiosity is vital in this process: Perceptual curiosity triggers the activation of brain regions typically associated with conflicts or primal needs, like hunger or thirst. Epistemic curiosity stimulates areas linked to the anticipation of rewards. These findings further emphasize the profound interplay between our innate curiosity and our brain's incredible capacity for growth and learning. </p>

<p>Novelty seeking is an intriguing trait that fuels our natural curiosity to explore unfamiliar stimuli and environments. Extensive research has found evidence supporting the role of <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/dopamine">dopamine </a>in modulating this behavior. The neurotransmitter dopamine activates neurons and stimulates specific regions that receive dopaminergic input when we encounter something novel. </p>

<p>Scientists have discovered that dopamine is crucial in driving our urge to explore new surroundings. It enhances the value we attribute to novel experiences, making them more enticing. Intriguingly, excessive novelty-seeking behavior, often associated with impulsivity and behavioral addictions, has been linked to abnormally high dopamine levels. </p>

<p>Dopamine seems more connected to what we anticipate from a reward than the reward itself. As we engage in repetitive activities that yield predictable outcomes, our brain gradually becomes accustomed to the expected reward, leading to a decrease in dopamine release. This phenomenon, known as <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/hedonic-treadmill">hedonic adaptation </a>, highlights the intricate relationship between dopamine and the anticipation of rewards. </p>

<p>We embark on self-discovery and growth when engaging in a transformative <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/coaching">coaching </a>process. As coaches, neuroplasticians excel at nurturing curiosity within their clients. By tapping into their inner motivations, interests, and <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/appetite">appetite </a>for novelty, they can ignite a process of self-discovery that leads to personal transformation. </p>

<p><strong><em>Nevia Fersula, MA, is a <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/leadership">leadership </a>coach </em>. </strong> </p>

<p>Valentina Vellani, Lianne P de Vries, Anne Gaule, Tali Sharot (2020). National Library of Medicine, A selective effect of dopamine on information-seeking. </p>

<p>Vincent D Costa, Valery L Tran, Janita Turchi, Bruno B Averbeck (2014), National Library of Medicine, Dopamine modulates novelty-seeking behavior during decision making. </p>

<p>Bryan Kolb, Allonna Harker, Robbin Gibb (2017). National Library of Medicine, Principles of plasticity in the developing brain. </p>

<p>Celeste Kidd, Benjamin Y Hayden (1915). National Library of Medicine. The Psychology and Neuroscience of Curiosity. </p>

The Psychology and Neuroscience of Curiosity

Curiosity Comes from Nature and Nurture

Two Kinds of Curiosity

Dopamine and the Thrill of Curiosity

Brain Power and Learning

Curiosity Helps Your Brain Grow

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