AP Psychology: Modules 15 & 16

Evolutionary psychology

The study and development of the mind and survival using natural selection.

Genes

Units of heredity that work together to control brain function and behavior.

Sex drives

Evolutionary psychologists suggest that men tend to have stronger sex drives compared to women.

Mate selection

Women are more cautious and guarded when choosing a mate due to their ability to bear and nurse a child.

Personal attractiveness

Men place more emphasis on personal attractiveness when seeking a mate.

Waists and fertility

Men are biologically inclined to seek out women with waists 1/3 smaller than theirs as it is a sign of good fertility.

Critics of evolutionary psychology

Opponents argue that evolutionary psychologists work backward, use hindsight bias, and discount social and cultural changes.

Culture and behavior

Our behavior is influenced by both genetic predispositions and our interactions with culture.

Stages of sleep

There are four stages of sleep, and it takes about 90 minutes to pass through them.

NREM sleep

The first three stages of sleep are known as non-rapid eye movement sleep.

REM sleep

The fourth stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movement, paralysis, and dreaming.

Brain waves

The brain's waves change according to the sleep stage one is in.

Suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)

A pair of cell clusters in the hypothalamus that controls circadian rhythm.

Melatonin

The pineal gland adjusts melatonin production in response to light, affecting feelings of sleepiness.

Disruption of circadian rhythms

Excessive melatonin from supplements can disrupt our circadian rhythms.