Psychology - Biological Paper 1 Key terms

IB Psychology Paper 1 Biological Terms

Animal research

________ in psychology involves studying non-human subjects to understand the biological, genetic, and evolutionary bases of behaviour and mental processes. Because humans and animals share similar brain structures and nervous systems, researchers use animal models to conduct experiments that would be unethical or impractical on humans.

Biological reductionism

________ is an approach that explains complex human behaviours and mental processes by breaking them down into their simplest biological parts. For example, via genetics, neurotransmitters, brain structures, or hormones.

Brain imaging techniques

Non-invasive technological tools used by psychologists and neuroscientists to visualize the structure or function of the living human brain. Common examples include structural scans like MRIs, which show anatomy, and functional scans like fMRIs or PET scans, which track real-time brain activity and blood flow.

Chemical messengers

_________ are specialised signalling molecules used by the body to transmit information between cells and regulate behaviour, mood, and bodily functions. The two most studied types are neurotransmitters, which flash rapidly across brain synapses to control immediate actions or emotions, and hormones, which travel slowly through the bloodstream to drive long-term changes like stress responses or bonding.

Diathesis-Stress Model

This model suggests that psychological disorders arise from the interaction of an underlying vulnerability (diathesis) and external stressors. An individual may have a predisposition to a disorder, but it's the combination of this and adverse life events that triggers its manifestation. (For example, with MDD)

Genetic inheritance

Genes and their DNA are passed down from parents to their offspring - 50% of genes being inherited from each parent. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, with approximately 20.000 - 25.000 genes.

Localization of function

________ is the theory that specific parts of the brain are responsible for specific behaviours or cognitive processes. For example, damage to a specific area like Broca's area can completely disrupt a person's ability to speak while leaving their understanding of language perfectly intact.

Neuroplasticity

Brain plasticity refers to the brain's ability to rearrange the connections between its neurons - that is, the changes that occur in the structure of the brain as a result of learning or experience. High levels of stimulation and numerous learning opportunities lead to an increase in the density of neural connections. A classic example of ______ is the London Taxi Driver study conducted by Dr. Eleanor Maguire.

Neurotransmission

________ is the electrochemical process by which nerve cells, or neurons, communicate with each other to pass signals throughout the brain and nervous system. It occurs when an electrical impulse travels down a neuron, triggering the release of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters across a tiny gap known as a synapse. These chemicals bind to receptors on the receiving neuron, either prompting it to fire its own signal or stopping it from firing, ultimately driving every thought, movement, and emotion.