Understanding the Darker Side of Dopamine: A Parent in Partnership Session with Ryan Parke

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At Shrewsbury Bangkok Riverside, we believe that supporting students to flourish extends beyond the classroom, built on a strong and informed partnership between school and families.

As part of this commitment, we were honoured to welcome Ryan Parke, a coach, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author specialising in the links between lifestyle, hormones, and male mental health, for a Parent in Partnership session exploring “The Darker Side of Dopamine.” This session offered a deeper understanding of how dopamine functions as a key chemical messenger in the brain, shaping motivation, behaviour, and the pursuit of reward.

Parents were introduced to the science behind dopamine cycles, from moments of heightened motivation to the natural return to baseline and how modern-day stimuli can disrupt this balance. From digital platforms designed around variable reward systems to highly stimulating environments, the session explored how repeated dopamine spikes can lead to cycles of craving, reduced motivation, and dependency-like behaviours.

Importantly, the discussion highlighted how individuals often return to familiar baseline states and how awareness of these patterns can support healthier habits and more balanced engagement with technology and lifestyle choices.

The session reflected our ongoing commitment to support both students and parents with the tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex world. By building a shared understanding, we continue to strengthen a community that works together to enable every student to flourish at school and beyond.

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