Module 1.4a - The Brain: Neuroplasticity and Tools of Discovery

Biological psychology

 The scientific study of the links between biological (genetic, neural, hormonal) and psychological processes. Some biological psychologists call themselves neuroscientists, neuropsychologists, behavior geneticists, physiological psychologists, biopsychologists,)

Biopsychosocial approach

An integrated approach that incorporates biological, psychological, and social-cultural levels of analysis

Levels of analysis

The differing complementary views, from biological to psychological to social-cultural, for analyzing any given phenomenon.

Neuroplasticity

The brain’s ability to change, especially during childhood, reorganizing after damage or by building new pathways based on experience.

Lesion

 Tissue destruction, Brain lesions may occur naturally (from disease or trauma), during surgery, or experimentally (using electrodes to destroy brain cells).

EGG (Electroencephalogram)

An amplified recording of the waves of electrical activity sweeping across the brain's surface. These waves are measured by electrocodes placed on the scalp.

MEG (Magnetoencephalography)

A brain-imaging technique that measures magnetic fields from the brain’s natural electrical activity.

CT (Computed tomography) Scan

A series of X-rays from photographs taken from different angles and combined by computer into a composite representation of a slice of the brain’s structure.

PET (Positron emission tomography)

A technique that uses magnetic fields and radioactive form of glucose while the brain performs a given task.

MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)

A technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer-generated images of soft tissue. scans show brain anatomy

fMRI

A technique for revealing blood flow and, therefore, brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans. scans show brain function as well as structure.