UNIT 1 Biological bases of Behavior

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

Heredity

The genetic transfer of characteristics from parents to offspring.

Epigenetics

The study of molecular mechanisms by which environments can influence genetic expression without a DNA change.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that cross the synaptic gap between neurons and influence whether the neuron will generate a neural impulse.

Action Potential

A neural impulse; a brief electrical charge that travels down an axon.

Neural Networks

Clusters of neurons that layer together to work on connected tasks.

Behavior Genetics

The study of the relative power and limits of genetic variation and environmental influences on behavior.

Natural Selection

The principle that the inherited traits enabling an organism to best survive and reproduce in a particular environment.

Synapse

The junction between the axon tip of the sending neuron and the dendrite or cell body of the receiving neuron.

NREM Sleep

Non-rapid eye movement sleep; encompasses all sleep stages except for REM sleep.

Dual Processing

The principle that information is often simultaneously processed on separate conscious and unconscious tracks.

Circadian Rhythm

Our biological clock; regular bodily rhythms that occur on a 24-hour cycle.

Myelin Sheath

A fatty tissue layer segmentally encasing the axons of some neurons, allowing for faster transmission of neural impulses.

Threshold

The level of stimulation required to trigger a neural impulse.

Reflex Arc

A part of the spinal cord that controls reflexes.

Split Brain

A condition resulting from surgery that separates the brain’s two hemispheres by cutting the fibers connecting them.

Heritability

The extent to which trait differences among individuals are attributable to genetic variations.

Cognitive Neuroscience

The interdisciplinary study of brain activity linked with cognition (thinking, knowing, remembering, and communicating).

Neuroplasticity

The brain’s ability to change, especially during childhood, by reorganizing after damage or by building new pathways based on experience.

Substance Use Disorder

A disorder characterized by continued substance use despite life disruption.

Agonist

A molecule that increases a neurotransmitter’s actions, can mimic a neurotransmitter.

Antagonist

A molecule that inhibits or blocks a neurotransmitter’s actions.

Insomnia

Recurring problems in falling and staying asleep.

Wish Fulfillment Theory

The theory proposed by Freud stating that dreams express subconscious, unacceptable feelings.