Physiological Psychology Key Terms

Flashcards for key terms in physiological psychology, covering topics such as imaging techniques, nervous system organization, neuroanatomy, neural transmission, and the role of heredity and environment.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A recording of electrical activity in the brain.

Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) Scans

Imaging technique that uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of the brain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

A technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs inside the body.

Functional MRI (fMRI)

A type of MRI that measures and maps the brain's activity.

PET Scans (Positron Emission Tomography)

Imaging test that helps reveal how your tissues and organs are functioning.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord.

Afferent Neurons

Nerve fibers that carry information to the central nervous system.

Efferent Neurons

Nerve fibers that carry information away from the central nervous system.

Somatic Nervous System

The part of the peripheral nervous system associated with voluntary control of body movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

The part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions.

Fight-or-Flight Reaction

The body's automatic response to danger that prepares an individual to either confront or flee from the threat.

Hindbrain

The part of the brain that includes the medulla oblongata, cerebellum, and pons.

Limbic System

A set of structures in the brain that deal with emotions and memory.

Thalamus

The brain structure that relays sensory information.

Hippocampus

A brain region involved in the formation of memories.

Anterograde Amnesia

Inability to form new memories after a brain injury.

Broca's Area

An area in the frontal lobe involved in speech production.

Wernicke's Area

An area in the temporal lobe involved in language comprehension.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter associated with muscle action and memory.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that plays a key role in reward, motivation, and the regulation of mood.

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters that help relieve pain and induce feelings of pleasure.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual.

Phenotype

The set of observable characteristics of an individual.

Heritability

The proportion of variation in a trait that can be attributed to genetic differences.

Nature versus Nurture Debate

Discussion regarding the relative importance of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) in determining behavior.