psylife4_ch02_lecppt

Basic Structure of the Neuron:

• Dendrites: Branch-like structures that receive signals from other neurons.

• Cell Body (Soma): Contains the nucleus, integrates incoming signals, and generates outgoing signals.

• Axon: Long projection that transmits signals away from the cell body to other neurons.

• Synapse: Junction between neurons where neurotransmitters are released for communication.

Neurons Communication:

• Action Potential: An electrical impulse that travels down the axon when a neuron is activated, involving movements of sodium and potassium ions.

• Neurotransmitters: Chemical messengers released at synapses that bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, facilitating communication between neurons.

Impact of Neurotransmitters on a College Student:

• Acetylcholine: Essential for memory and learning, influencing study sessions and retention of knowledge.

• Norepinephrine: Affects arousal and alertness, vital during classes or when trying to stay awake for late-night study sessions.

• Serotonin: Plays a role in mood regulation, impacting a student's overall happiness and motivation.

• Dopamine: Associated with reward and motivation, affecting how students feel when they achieve good grades or complete assignments.

• Endorphins: Act as natural pain relievers and can help alleviate stress during difficult periods, such as exams.

Nervous System Reaction to Stress:

• Before a Stressful Event (e.g., final exam): The sympathetic nervous system activates the "fight-or-flight" response, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and readiness.

• After a Stressful Event: Once the stressor is removed, the parasympathetic nervous system counteracts this by promoting relaxation. The heart rate decreases, and the body gradually returns to a resting state, facilitating recovery.

Structure and Functions:

• Amygdala: Key role in emotional responses, particularly fear and aggression; processes memories related to emotions.

• Cerebellum: Responsible for coordination and balance; fine tunes motor activity and aids in learning complex motor tasks.

• Hippocampus: Essential for memory formation and spatial navigation; involved in converting short-term memories to long-term storage.

• Frontal Lobe: Governs complex cognitive functions such as planning, decision-making, impulse control, and movement.

• Hypothalamus: Regulates bodily functions like temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms; plays a critical role in the endocrine system through hormone release.