Introduction to Biopsychology and Neuroscience

These flashcards cover key concepts from biopsychology and neuroscience, including genetics, brain structure, neurotransmitters, and functions within the nervous system.

What are the three types of brain scans mentioned in the notes?

PET scan, CT scan, and fMRI.

What does biopsychology study?

Biopsychology explores the biological mechanisms underlying behavior, including genetics and the nervous system.

How do genes affect psychological traits according to human genetics?

Inherited genes can affect both physiological and psychological traits of a person.

What is the main idea of Darwin's theory of evolution?

Organisms that are better suited for their environment will survive and reproduce.

What genetic condition is referenced in relation to the theory of evolution?

Sickle cell anemia.

What is genetic variation?

The genetic difference between individuals that contributes to a species' adaptation to its environment.

What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?

Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an individual, while phenotype describes observable characteristics.

Define dominant and recessive alleles.

Dominant alleles are expressed even if only one copy is present, while recessive alleles are expressed only when two copies are present.

What is a Punnett square used for?

A tool to predict how genes will interact in the production of offspring.

What does the term 'mutation' refer to?

A sudden, permanent change in a gene.

What are gene-environment interactions?

The ways in which our environment and genes interact to shape an individual's traits.

What is the primary function of neurons?

To transmit electrical signals throughout the body.

What is the action potential?

An electrical signal generated when the membrane potential reaches a certain threshold.

What are neurotransmitters?

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across the synapse between neurons.

What role do psychotropic medications play in treating psychiatric symptoms?

They restore neurotransmitter balance.

What are the two major parts of the nervous system?

The Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).

What are the components of the autonomic nervous system?

The sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system.

What does the thalamus do?

Serves as a relay center for sensory information (excluding smell) before directing it to the brain.

What are the four lobes of the cerebral cortex?

Frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe.

What is the limbic system responsible for?

Mediating emotional response and memory.

What regulates the sleep/wake cycle and arousal in the midbrain?

The reticular formation.

What are the main functions of the hindbrain?

Controls automated processes like breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate.

What imaging technique uses magnetic fields to produce images of the brain?

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).

What does the hypothalamus link?

Links the nervous system and endocrine system by controlling the pituitary gland.