Unit 1 Part 1

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate regarding whether human traits are present at birth (nature) or developed through experience (nurture).

Evolutionary Psychology

The study of the evolution of behavior and mind, using principles of natural selection.

Natural Selection

Charles Darwin’s principle that inherited traits which improve survival and reproduction are more likely to be passed on to succeeding generations.

Behavior Genetics

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

Epigenetics

The study of how environments can influence genetic expression.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that cross synaptic gaps between neurons to influence whether receiving neurons will generate a neural impulse.

Agonist

A molecule that increases the action of a neurotransmitter.

Antagonist

A molecule that inhibits or blocks the action of a neurotransmitter.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing information.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Connects the central nervous system to the rest of the body, composed of sensory and motor neurons.

Somatic Nervous System

The division of the PNS that controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles.

Autonomic Nervous System

Controls involuntary actions such as heartbeat and digestion.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that arouses the body, mobilizing its energy for 'fight or flight.'

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that calms the body and conserves energy, often referred to as 'rest and digest.'

Neuron

The basic building block of the nervous system, a nerve cell.

Glial Cells

Cells that provide support, nourishment, and protection for neurons.

Neural Impulse (Action Potential)

A brief electrical charge that travels down the axon of a neuron.

All-or-Nothing Response

A neuron’s reaction of either firing or not firing when the threshold is met.

Neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to change and adapt, especially during childhood, by reorganizing or forming new pathways.

Psychoactive Drug

A chemical substance that alters brain function, causing changes in perception, mood, or consciousness.

Substance Use Disorder

A disorder characterized by continued substance use despite significant life disruption.

Neuron Communication

Occurs at the synapse where neurotransmitters are released from one neuron to bind to receptors of another.

Corpus Callosum

A large band of neural fibers connecting the two cerebral hemispheres, allowing communication between them.