Currently, researchers are further deciphering the fear process in humans. They hope to determine the effects of age, gender and illness on the system. In addition, scientists are uncovering the biochemical reactions that run the fear response and are searching for the brain regions that modify the response in the amygdala. They also are hunting for the brain structures that help store dreadful memories over time. Insight on the fear system also is motivating researchers to untangle the possible differences between fear and anxiety.
Anxiety stirs a slower reaction that lasts a while.
This suggests that the processing of the two emotions may be different. Indeed, early studies show that different parts of the amygdala may process anxiety versus fear. It also appears that some illnesses result from defects in these anxiety areas while others are more linked to fear paths. Researchers also are examining the role of the amygdala in less distressing types of emotions, such as happiness. Please include a full copy of the paper.