Introduction to Psychology: Neuroscience and Behavior

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to the biological bases of behavior in neuroscience and psychology.

Basic cell functioning

The fundamental operations of cells that contribute to biological processes in the nervous system.

Cell body

The part of a neuron that contains the nucleus and is essential for maintaining the life of the cell.

Axon

A long, slender projection of a neuron that transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body.

Dendrites

Branch-like structures of neurons that receive messages from other neurons.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Reuptake

The process by which neurotransmitters are reabsorbed by the neuron that released them.

Breakdown

The enzymatic process that deactivates neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft.

Receptor cites

Specific sites on the neuron where neurotransmitters attach to initiate a signal.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter associated with muscle action, memory, and learning.

Botulinus toxin

A potent neurotoxin that inhibits the release of acetylcholine, affecting muscle contractions.

Curare poison

A toxin that blocks acetylcholine receptors, leading to paralysis.

Norepinephrine (NE)

A neurotransmitter involved in arousal, alertness, and the stress response.

Amphetamines

Stimulants that increase the release of norepinephrine and dopamine.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter significant for motivation, pleasure, and motor control.

Parkinson's disease

A neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons.

Schizophrenia

A mental disorder associated with dysregulation of dopamine, affecting thoughts and behavior.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep.

Depression

A mood disorder linked to low levels of serotonin.

GABA

An inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate anxiety and muscle tone.

Valium

A medication that enhances the effect of GABA, used to treat anxiety.

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters that help relieve pain and induce feelings of pleasure.

Acupuncture

A practice that may stimulate the release of endorphins to relieve pain.

Opiates

Drugs derived from opium (like heroin and morphine) that bind to endorphin receptors, producing pain relief and euphoria.