OpenStax_Psychology2e_CH03_LectureSlides

What are the three main types of brain scans mentioned in the lecture?

PET scan, CT scan, and fMRI.

What does biopsychology explore?

The biological mechanisms that underlie behavior.

How does genetics influence psychology?

Genetics can affect physiological and psychological traits of a person.

What is the result of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution through natural selection?

Organisms better suited for their environment survive and reproduce.

What is genetic variation?

The genetic difference between individuals that contributes to a species’ adaptation to its environment.

What do genotype and phenotype refer to?

Genotype is the genetic makeup of an individual; phenotype describes observable characteristics.

What is the role of dominant and recessive alleles in genetics?

Dominant alleles express traits even when inherited from one parent, while recessive alleles only express traits when inherited from both parents.

What does a Punnett square do?

Predicts how genes will interact in the production of offspring.

How do neurotransmitters function in the nervous system?

As chemical messengers that facilitate communication between neurons.

What is the significance of the limbic system?

Involved in mediating emotional response and memory.

What distinguishes the sympathetic nervous system from the parasympathetic nervous system?

The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for 'fight or flight', while the parasympathetic relaxes the body for 'rest and digest'.

What are the functions of the forebrain structures?

Includes higher-level processes, sensory relay, homeostasis, and emotional memory circuits.

What is the role of the thalamus?

Serves as the relay center of the brain where most senses are routed for processing.

How does the midbrain contribute to bodily functions?

Regulates sleep/wake cycle, arousal, and motor activity.

What are the three main parts of the nervous system?

Central Nervous System (CNS), Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), and Autonomic Nervous System.

What type of imaging technique is a CT scan?

Involves x-rays to create an image through varied densities in the brain.

How is the pituitary gland described in the endocrine system?

It serves as the master gland, controlling the secretions of all other glands.

What role does epigenetics play in psychology?

Studies gene-environment interactions and how the same genotype can lead to different phenotypes.