Neuroscience and behavior

Absolute Threshold

Minimum stimulation needed to detect a stimulus 50% of the time.

Difference Threshold

Smallest change in a stimulus detectable 50% of the time.

Neurons

Nerve cells that transmit information.

Glial Cells

Support cells that nourish and protect neurons.

SSRIs

Antidepressants that increase serotonin levels.

Dopamine

Neurotransmitter involved in movement and reward.

Serotonin

Affects mood, sleep, and hunger.

Norepinephrine

Controls alertness and arousal.

GABA

Inhibitory neurotransmitter, reduces activity.

Glutamate

Major excitatory neurotransmitter.

Acetylcholine

Involved in movement and memory.

Lobes of Brain

Frontal, parietal, temporal, occipital.

Consolidation Theory

Dreaming helps store memories.

Corpus Callosum

Connects left and right hemispheres.

Circadian Rhythm

24-hour biological cycle.

Activation Synthesis Theory

Dreams are random brain activity the brain interprets.

Twin Studies

Examine nature vs. nurture influences.

Nervous System Divisions

Central and peripheral systems.

Somatic Nervous System

Controls voluntary movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates automatic functions.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Activates fight or flight.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Calms the body.

Reflex Arc

Automatic response bypassing the brain.

Psychoactive Drugs

Alter perception, mood, and behavior.

Opioids

Relieve pain, create euphoria.

Stimulants

Increase CNS activity.

Depressants

Slow down body functions.

Hallucinogens

Distort perception and sensory experience.

EEG

Measures brain waves.

fMRI

Shows brain activity by tracking blood flow.

Lesioning

Destroying brain tissue to study effects.

Sleep Disorders

Issues like narcolepsy, insomnia, REM sleep behavior disorder, and sleep apnea.

Trichromatic Color Theory

We have red green and blue color receptors

Opponent-Process Theories

We see colors in opposite pairs red-green, blue-yellow