Week 1 flashcards

Neurons

The primary communication cells in the brain and spinal cord, approximately 85 billion in number.

Hindbrain

The part of the brain that controls basic life functions.

Cerebellum

Coordinates voluntary movements and balance.

Forebrain

Involves higher functions like emotion and cognition.

Medulla

Regulates breathing, heart rate, blood circulation, and balance; connects to the spinal cord.

Hypothalamus

Controls motivated behaviors (eating, drinking, sexual activity) and involuntary rhythms.

Amygdala

Plays a role in emotional responses, particularly fear and anger.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons.

Agonists

Chemicals that enhance neurotransmitter activity.

Cognitive Reappraisal

Changing the meaning of a situation to decrease emotional response.

James-Lange Theory

Emotions result from bodily reactions to external stimuli.

Bridge Study

Demonstrated how context can influence emotional interpretation.

Brain Lateralization

The phenomenon allowing efficient processing and multitasking by different hemispheres.

Reticular Formation

A network of nerves involved in autonomic functions, pain modulation, sleep, and consciousness.

Pons

Controls attentiveness, sleep, and dreaming; located above the medulla.

Dendrites

Receive signals from other neurons.

Cell Body

Contains the nucleus and metabolic components of a neuron.

Axon

Sends neural impulses to other neurons.

Limitations of Neuroscience

Caution against oversimplification of brain functions and acceptance of dubious claims.

Facial Electromyography (fEMG)

Attempts to objectively measure facial muscle movements associated with emotions.