Behavioral Genetics, Emotions, Stress, and Motivation Notes

Practice flashcards based on behavioral genetics, emotions, stress, and motivation concepts.

What are brains made up of?

Brains are made up of neurons and glial cells, composed of proteins, lipids, and other molecules.

What creates neuronal diversity?

Gene expression, alternative splicing, epigenetic modifications, and environmental influences lead to diverse neuron types.

Is the blueprint for a brain conserved across evolution?

Yes, many aspects of the brain's structure and function are highly conserved across species, especially among vertebrates.

How can minor differences in the DNA blueprint make for significant differences?

Small genetic variations can lead to differences in protein structure, gene regulation, or expression timing—affecting development and behavior.

What is a genotype?

An individual's genetic makeup.

What is a phenotype?

Observable traits or behaviors, resulting from the interaction of the genotype and environment.

Do genes work in isolation?

No, genes interact with each other and with the environment to shape development and behavior.

How do genes, phenotypes, and environments interact?

Genes influence traits, but environmental factors can modify gene expression, altering the phenotype.

What is epigenetics?

The study of changes in gene expression that don’t involve changes to the DNA sequence.

What is heritability?

A statistical estimate of how much of the variation in a trait within a population is due to genetic differences.

What do twin studies show about the heritability of phenotypes?

Identical twins share more traits than fraternal twins, suggesting a genetic component to many traits.

How is heritability a fraught topic?

It applies to populations, not individuals, can vary with environment, and raises ethical concerns.

Why can't we make accurate predictions about a phenotype based on genotype?

Because phenotypes are influenced by many genes and environmental factors, and gene-environment interactions are complex.

Do neuropsychiatric disorders have a genetic basis?

Yes, many have genetic components but the environment also plays a significant role.

What is an emotion?

A coordinated response involving feelings, physiological changes, and behaviors triggered by stimuli.

What are the three aspects of emotion?

Feelings, autonomic responses, and somatic responses.

What are the functions of emotions?

Promote survival, facilitate social communication, and help in decision-making.

What is Darwin's evolutionary view of emotion?

Emotions are evolved, adaptive responses that are universal across species and cultures.

Why are facial expressions important?

They communicate internal states to others and help coordinate social interactions.

What are Ekman’s basic emotions?

Happiness, sadness, fear, anger, surprise, disgust, and sometimes contempt.

How was Ekman's research conducted?

Through cross-cultural studies showing recognition of facial expressions regardless of culture.

What is evidence for innate emotions?

Infants show basic emotions; blind people display the same facial expressions; cross-cultural recognition exists.

What are display rules?

Cultural norms dictating how and when emotions should be expressed.

What is the difference between discrete and dimensional emotions?

Discrete emotions are distinct categories; dimensional emotions lie on a spectrum.

What are the three main contributors to happiness?

Genetics, life circumstances, and intentional activities.

Can we change our happiness?

Yes, especially through intentional behaviors like mindfulness, exercise, and social connection.

How do normal individuals respond to emotional images?

They show strong emotional responses to emotional images.

How do psychopaths respond to emotional images?

They show reduced emotional reactivity to emotional images.

How do individuals with phobias respond to specific triggers?

They show heightened responses to specific triggers.

How common is stress among college students?

Very common due to academics, finances, and social pressures.

What are three major sources of stress?

Daily hassles, major life events, and chronic stressors.

What is the definition of stress?

A physiological and psychological response to perceived challenges or threats.

What are the characteristics of a Type A personality?

Competitive, impatient, aggressive—linked to higher risk of heart disease.

What are the characteristics of a Type B personality?

Relaxed, easygoing, less prone to stress-related illness.

What traits are associated with coronary heart disease?

Hostility, chronic anger, and stress (common in Type A individuals).

How does stress impact health?

Weakens the immune system, increases disease risk, affects mental health.

What is General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)?

The body's response to stress: Alarm, Resistance, Exhaustion.

What is the Yerkes-Dodson Law?

Performance is best at moderate levels of arousal; too little or too much impairs it.

How can mindset help manage stress?

Viewing stress as a challenge rather than a threat improves coping and outcomes.

How common are traumatic events?

Many people experience at least one in their lifetime.

How is trauma different from stress?

Trauma is an intense, overwhelming experience that can lead to long-term effects.

Is PTSD incurable?

Not necessarily; treatments can be effective.

What are some effective treatments for PTSD?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and medications (e.g., SSRIs).

Do people report growth after trauma?

Yes, some experience 'post-traumatic growth' and report positive changes.

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic rewards?

Intrinsic rewards are internal satisfaction; extrinsic rewards are external incentives.

What is performance vs. mastery orientation?

Performance focuses on being judged; mastery focuses on learning and self-improvement.

What is the difference between fixed vs. growth mindset?

Fixed mindset believes abilities are static; growth mindset believes they can develop with effort.

What does the biopsychosocial model explain?

Health is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.

What are primary and secondary appraisals in stress assessment?

Primary appraisal determines if there's a threat; secondary appraisal assesses coping ability.

Does humor help us cope?

Yes, humor can reduce stress, improve mood, and build social bonds.