Nervous System, Brain Function, and Altered States of Consciousness

Comprehensive practice flashcards reviewing the nervous system, neural communication, brain structures, genetics, sleep, and altered states of consciousness based on lecture notes.

What are the two major divisions of the nervous system, and what structures comprise the central nervous system?

The two major divisions are the Central nervous system (CNS) and the Peripheral nervous system (PNS). The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord.

What are the two subdivisions of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and their respective roles?

The somatic nervous system governs voluntary movement and sensory input, whereas the autonomic nervous system regulates automatic bodily processes.

How do the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems differ in function and physiological effects?

The sympathetic nervous system drives fight-or-flight responses, while the parasympathetic nervous system drives rest-and-digest responses.

In what directions do sensory and motor signals travel relative to the brain?

Sensory signals travel to the brain, while motor signals travel from the brain.

What are the four steps in the neural communication process?

1. Detection of signals from other neurons, 2. Integration of information, 3. Transmission down the neuron, and 4. Communication to the next neuron.

What forms of signaling occur within neurons versus between neurons?

Electrical signals (action potentials) occur within neurons, while chemical signals occur between neurons across synapses.

How do SSRIs act on neurotransmitters during synaptic transmission?

SSRIs function as reuptake inhibitors to influence serotonin signaling.

What are the primary functions of the frontal lobe and parietal lobe of the cerebral cortex?

The frontal lobe handles planning, decision making, complex thinking, and voluntary movement. The parietal lobe processes touch, spatial awareness, and body sensations.

What primary functions are associated with the temporal lobe and occipital lobe?

The temporal lobe handles hearing and memory processing, while the occipital lobe handles visual processing.

What are the specialized functions of the prefrontal cortex and Broca's area?

The prefrontal cortex is responsible for planning, organization, and complex thinking, while Broca's area is dedicated to speech production.

What distinct roles do the hippocampus and the amygdala play in the brain?

The hippocampus is responsible for the formation of new memories, whereas the amygdala is responsible for emotional processing.

What are the functions of the brain stem, basal ganglia, thalamus, and cerebellum?

The brain stem regulates vital functions like breathing and heart rate; the basal ganglia controls movement; the thalamus acts as a sensory relay; and the cerebellum governs coordination and balance.

How is brain plasticity defined?

Brain plasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize, form new connections, and compensate after injury.

What hemisphere dominance is highlighted in split-brain studies regarding visual field processing and communication?

Split-brain studies emphasize language dominance in the left hemisphere.

What is the distinction between genotype and phenotype?

Genotype refers to an organism's genetic makeup, while phenotype refers to its observable traits.

What stages make up sleep, and what specific brain activity patterns occur during them?

The sleep stages are Stage 1, Stage 2, Slow-wave sleep, and REM sleep. Notable brain activity patterns include K-complexes and delta waves.

How do restorative theory and information consolidation theory explain the purpose of sleep?

Restorative theory asserts that sleep provides physical and mental recovery, while information consolidation theory states that sleep strengthens memory connections.

How do insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and narcolepsy present clinically?

Insomnia involves difficulty falling or staying asleep; obstructive sleep apnea involves repeated breathing interruptions during sleep; and narcolepsy causes sudden sleep episodes.

What are the two major theoretical perspectives that explain hypnosis?

The sociocognitive theory and dissociation perspectives.

What two types of meditation are discussed, and what health benefits are linked to them?

The two types are concentrative meditation and mindfulness. Reported benefits include improved immune function, stress reduction, and improved emotional regulation.

What are the defining characteristics of a flow state?

Deep engagement in an activity, loss of time awareness, intense focus, and high intrinsic motivation.

How do stimulants, depressants, and hallucinogens differ in their primary psychological and nervous system effects?

Stimulants increase mental activity, behavior, alertness, energy, and confidence; depressants decrease and slow nervous system activity; and hallucinogens distort perception and cognition.