AB PSYCH | Theoretical Approaches

One-Dimensional

looking for a single cause

Multidimensional

looking for a systemic cause

Genes

long molecules of DNA at various locations on chromosomes, within cell nucleus

Chromosomes

the chain-like structures within a cell nucleus that contain the genes

Genes

carries of the information we inherit from our parents

How many chromosomes are there?

46 Chromosomes,

How many pairs of chromosomes are there?

23 Pairs

How many pairs of autosomes are there?

22 Pairs of Autosomes,

How many sex chromosomes are there?

1 pair Sex Chromosomes

XX Chromosomes

female

XY Chromosomes

male

Phenotypes

observable characteristics

Genotypes

unique genetic makeup

Polymorphisms

naturally occurring variations of genes

Polygenic

influenced by multiple genes or by multiple polymorphisms of genes with any one gene having only very small effects

Endophenotypes

genetic mechanisms that ultimately contribute to the underlying problems causing the symptoms and difficulties experienced by people with psychological disorders

Basic Genetic Epidemiology

statistical analysis of family, twin, and adoption studies; if the disorder can be inherited and how much is attributable to genetics

Advanced Genetic Epidemiology

studies the factors that influence the disorder

Gene Finding

what gene influences the behavior

Molecular Genetics

biological analysis of individual DNA samples; biological processes genes affect to produce symptoms of the disorder

Family Studies

examine behavioral pattern or emotional trait in the context of the family

Proband

• Family member with the trait singled out for study

• The first person in the family to be identified as possibly having genetic disorder and who may receive genetic counseling or testing

Adoption Studies

identify adoptees who have a particular behavioral pattern or psychological disorder and attempt to locate first-degree relatives who were raised in different family settings

Twin Studies

usually conducted to identical twins because they share genetic makeup

Epigenetics

factors other than inherited DNA sequence, such as new learning or stress, that alter the phenotypic expression of genes

Neuroscience

study of the nervous system, especially the brain to understand behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes

Dopamine

pleasure, reward, motivation system

Acetylcholine

Memory and muscle

Norepinephrine

Concentration

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)

Inhibitory/brake, calming

Serotonin (5-HT)

mood

Epinephrine

fight or flight

Glutamate

excitatory, learning, and memory

Endorphin

natural pain killers

high vs low dopamine

Schizophrenia — Parkinson’s

low acetylcholine

Alzheimer’s (Dementia)

high vs low norepinephrine

Mania — Depression

high vs low GABA

Relaxation — Anxiety/OCD