Ventral Tegmental Area

A midbrain structure and starting point of the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system involved in reward, motivation and addiction. Linked with, but separate from the ventral pallidum. Related to the experience of positive emotions.

Reference:
Bear, M.F., Connors, B.W. & Paradiso, M.A. (2001). Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain. (2nd Edition). Baltimore, MD: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.