What is characterized by having too little positive affect in mood-related symptoms?

The characterization of having too little positive affect in mood-related symptoms is most associated with dysfunction in both dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE). Dopamine is crucial for the brain's reward system and is significantly linked to feelings of pleasure and motivation. When DA levels are low, individuals may experience a lack of enjoyment and reduced motivation, which directly impacts positive affect.

Simultaneously, norepinephrine plays a vital role in regulating mood, arousal, and attention. A deficiency in norepinephrine can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, lack of energy, and overall decreased mood. Therefore, when both neurotransmitters are dysfunctional, the combined effect results in a marked reduction in positive affect, illustrating how their interplay is critical in mood regulation.

Other choices, while they each pertain to neurotransmitter dysfunction, do not encompass the full spectrum impacting positive mood. For instance, dopamine dysfunction alone would lead to anhedonia but may not entirely account for the broader mood disturbances involving energy and arousal that norepinephrine influences. Similarly, serotonin dysfunction affects mood but does not specifically encompass the lack of positive affect associated with the interaction of dopamine and norepinephrine.