Which brain structure is primarily involved in emotions like fear and pleasure?

The amygdala is primarily involved in processing emotions, particularly fear and pleasure. It is an almond-shaped cluster of nuclei located deep within the temporal lobes of the brain. The amygdala plays a crucial role in the formation and storage of memories associated with emotional events, making it essential for recognizing emotional stimuli and responding to threats. Its activation can trigger physiological responses such as increased heart rate and the release of stress hormones.

The hypothalamus does play a role in regulating emotions but is more focused on maintaining homeostasis and controlling bodily functions such as hunger, thirst, and the sleep-wake cycle. The cerebellum primarily coordinates movement and balance rather than emotional responses, while the pons is involved in regulating vital functions and relaying messages between different parts of the brain, but it does not directly manage emotions.