Chapter 2 - Brain and Behaviour: Subcortex and Forebrain

Vocabulary flashcards covering brain structures and functions from Subcortex and Forebrain sections.

Brainstem

Consists mainly of medulla and cerebellum.

Reticular Formation (RF)

Located inside medulla and brainstem; associated with alertness, attention, and some reflexes (breathing, coughing, sneezing, vomiting).

Reticular Activating System (RAS)

Part of RF that keeps cortex active and alert; acts as its alarm clock to activate and arouse cerebral cortex.

Limbic System

System within forebrain closely linked to emotional response.

Thalamus

Relays sensory information on the way to the cortex; acts as a switchboard.

Hypothalamus

Regulates emotional behaviours and basic motives (e.g., sex, hunger, rage, hormone release, eating/drinking, sleep/waking, emotion).

Amygdala

Associated with fear responses.

Hippocampus

Associated with storing permanent memories and helps us navigate through space.