AP Psychology: Endocrine System and Natural Selection

Flashcards covering the components and functions of the endocrine system, the basics of heredity, and the mechanism of natural selection.

Endocrine System

The body system responsible for controlling hormones, which regulate various bodily functions such as mood, growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Hormones

Chemicals in the body that travel through the blood; their effects are slower and last longer than those of neurotransmitters.

Hypothalamus

The top control center of the endocrine system; it regulates the pituitary gland and controls homeostasis and the "four Fs": Fighting, Fleeing, Feeding, and Mating (Sexual Function).

Pineal Gland

An endocrine gland that produces melatonin to support the circadian rhythm (sleep cycle).

Pituitary Gland

The gland that controls growth and releases oxytocin, which promotes pair bonding and social trust (friendships and falling in love).

Thyroid Gland

A gland that affects metabolism, including the sensation of hunger and the processing of food for nutrients.

Parathyroids

Glands that regulate the calcium level in the blood.

Thymus

An organ involved in the production and maturation of immune cells, including small lymphocytes that protect the body against foreign antigens.

Adrenal Glands

Glands that release adrenaline, epinephrine, and norepinephrine to trigger the fight or flight response.

Pancreas

A gland that regulates blood sugar and releases the hormones insulin and glucagon.

Gonads

Reproductive organs (testis and ovaries) that release sex hormones, specifically testosterone and estrogen, to promote growth.

Chromosomes

Structures made up of DNA found in each cell; humans have $46$ chromosomes occurring in $23$ pairs.

DNA

The material that makes up chromosomes and contains our genes, which determine individual characteristics.

Nature-Nurture Debate

The psychological discussion regarding the influence of genetics versus environment; biological psychology is closely associated with the nature side of this debate.

Natural Selection

Darwin’s theory stating that if an adaptation survives, it can change a species over many generations by leading to greater survival and more offspring.

Mutation

An accident in DNA reproduction that serves as one way for adaptations to occur in a species.

Purposeful Interbreeding

The practice of promoting a specific trait through intentional breeding.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic condition prevalent in Africa that acts as an adaptation because it makes individuals immune to malaria, increasing their chances of survival and reproduction.