Biological Foundations of Human Behavior Flashcards

A set of practice questions covering the biological, psychological, and sociocultural foundations of human behavior, including neurobiology and brain structure.

Human behavior is the result of the interplay between which three fundamental components?

Biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

What are the three specific elements included in biological factors?

Genetics, brain chemistry, and physiology.

How can genetic makeup influence an individual's behavior?

It can predispose humans to certain traits and behaviors, such as shyness or extraversion.

Which cognitive processes mentioned in the text dictate how we interpret and respond to situations?

Perception, memory, and decision-making.

What are some examples of sociocultural factors that influence behavior?

Family, friends, social networks, cultural norms, and societal expectations.

According to twin studies, which traits have a genetic component?

Intelligence, aggression, and risk of mental health disorders.

What role do neurotransmitters play in the brain?

They act as chemical messengers that help the brain process and respond to information.

Which neurotransmitter is associated with the influence of mood?

Serotonin

Which neurotransmitter is associated with the influence of motivation?

Dopamine

Alterations in serotonin and dopamine are central to which two conditions?

Depression and schizophrenia

Which system in the body secretes hormones into the bloodstream to affect behavior?

The endocrine system

What behavior is the hormone oxytocin, known as the 'love hormone', involved in?

Forming social bonds and trust.

What is the primary function of the amygdala in the brain?

Emotional processing

What is the primary function of the frontal cortex in the brain?

Decision-making and problem-solving

What behavioral outcome is associated with a larger amygdala?

Heightened emotional responses

What is the concept called where the environment interacts with biological predispositions?

Gene-environment interaction