Psychologist Links Mushroom Picking to Brain's Reward System
An expert on mushrooms, Dmitry Tikhomirov, told
Consensus
- Mushroom picking activates the brain's reward system.
- The experience of finding a mushroom triggers a surge of positive emotions and dopamine.
- The behavior is linked to historical human survival through foraging and hunting.
- The psychological reward is stronger when the person feels they have contributed to their own survival.
- Even if no mushrooms are found, the person still gains benefits such as fresh air and mental relaxation.
- The activity is not associated with real risk or loss, unlike gambling.
- The experience can be enhanced by social competition when done in groups.
Points of divergence
- Starting September 1, 2026, administrative fines will be introduced in Moscow Oblast for collecting, selling, or destroying mushrooms listed in the regional Red Book. — vm
- In the Shatursky District of Moscow Oblast, mushroom hunters are increasingly finding Raveneul's mutinus, also known as 'stinkhorn' or 'smelly chanterelle'. — vm
- An expert on mushrooms, Dmitry Tikhomirov, explained to 'Vechernaya Moskva' the nature of this mushroom, its safety, and whether it is safe to collect nearby mushrooms. — vm
Coverage (2 sources)
- Psychologist Gladikh stated that mushroom gathering can be an exciting activity — Вечерняя Москва
- You can get hooked on this: psychologist explains the thrill of mushroom foraging — РИАМО