Neuroscience and Psychology Key Concepts

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts in neuroscience and psychology, aiding in exam preparation.

Neuron

The basic units of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting information.

Synapse

The junction where two neurons meet, allowing communication.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals between neurons.

Glial Cells

Cells that provide structure, insulation, communication, and waste transportation for neurons.

Endocrine System

A network of glands that produce hormones.

Hormones

Chemical messengers that influence behavior and development.

Cerebellum

Coordinates voluntary movements, posture and balance, and plays a role in cognitive functions.

Brain Stem

Located at the base of the brain; consist of the medulla, pons, and midbrain, controlling vital functions.

Sympathetic System

Mobilizes the body for action, triggering the 'fight or flight' response.

Central Nervous System

Made up of the brain and spinal cord, sending orders to the body.

Afferent Neurons

Sensory neurons that send signals to the CNS.

Efferent Neurons

Motor neurons that send signals from the CNS to the PNS.

Sensation

The process of sensing our environment through the five senses.

Absolute Threshold

The minimum level of a stimulus needed to be detected.

Difference Threshold

The smallest detectable difference between two stimuli.

Classical Conditioning

Learning associations between stimuli and responses.

Operant Conditioning

Learning through reinforcement and punishment.

Schemas

Mental frameworks for organizing information.

Intrinsic Motivation

Motivation driven by internal rewards.

Extrinsic Motivation

Motivation driven by external rewards.

Memory Types

Different types of memory including sensory, short-term, and long-term.

Drive Reduction Theory

The idea that we are motivated to reduce internal drives.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that influences movement, learning, attention, and emotions.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter related to mood, hunger, and sleep.

Reuptake

The process where neurons reabsorb excess neurotransmitters not needed.

Gestalt Principles

Rules governing how we perceive visual information as organized wholes.