Unit 1 Practice 1 AP Psych

Biological Bases of Behavior

The influence of biological processes on behavior and mental processes, as outlined in Unit 1 of AP Psychology.

Neurons

Neural cells that transmit information, forming the basis of the nervous system.

Glial Cells

Cells that provide structure, insulation, communication, and waste transport for neurons.

Neural Transmission

The process by which neurons communicate and transmit signals in the brain and nervous system.

Action Potential

A brief electrical impulse that travels down the axon of a neuron.

Neurotransmitters

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

Agonists

Substances that stimulate neural firing by mimicking neurotransmitters.

Antagonists

Substances that inhibit neural firing by blocking neurotransmitter receptors.

Circadian Rhythm

The biological clock that regulates the sleep/wake cycle over a 24-hour period.

REM Sleep

A sleep stage characterized by rapid eye movement, increased brain activity, and vivid dreams.

Heredity

Genetic or predisposed characteristics that influence physical, behavioral, and mental traits.

Environmental Factors

External influences, such as family interactions or education, that shape behavior and mental processes.

Central Nervous System

The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System

The part of the nervous system that relays messages to and from the central nervous system.

Autonomic Nervous System

The subsystem of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary bodily functions.

Somatic Nervous System

The subsystem of the peripheral nervous system that controls voluntary movements.

Reflex Arc

A neural pathway that mediates a reflex action, involving sensory, motor, and interneurons.

Brain Plasticity

The brain's ability to modify itself and create new connections throughout an individual's life.

Psychoactive Drugs

Substances that alter brain function and result in changes in mood, perception, or behavior.

Sleep Disorders

Conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns, affecting health and daily functioning.

Gate Control Theory

A theory that explains the complex nature of pain perception by suggesting that certain neural mechanisms can control the amount of pain one experiences.

Sensory Interaction

The process by which different sensory systems work together to create a more complete perception.

Kinesthesis

The sense of body movement and position, allowing for coordination without visual input.

Vestibular Sense

The sense responsible for balance, detected by the semicircular canals in the inner ear.