Neuroscience and Psychology Key Concepts

Neurons and Neurotransmitters

• Neurons: Basic units of the nervous system responsible for information transmission.

• Synapse: Junction between two neurons for communication.

• Neurotransmitters: Chemicals that transmit signals between neurons.

Biological Basis of Behavior

• Glial Cells: Support neurons, providing structure, insulation, communication, and waste transportation. They do not process information.

• Neurons: Basic functional units that communicate via electrical impulses and chemical signals.

• Endocrine System: Network of glands producing hormones that influence behavior and development.

• Brain Regions: Different areas (e.g., cortex, hippocampus, amygdala) with specialized functions.

• Brain Stem: Base of the brain on top of the spinal cord composed of medulla, pons, and midbrain; damage can be fatal.

• Cerebellum: Coordinates voluntary movement, posture, balance, fine motor skills, and cognitive functions.

• Cerebrum: Involved in complex thoughts; consists of two hemispheres.

• Cerebral Cortex: Contains nerve cells, divided into functional lobes:

  • Frontal Lobe: Higher-level thinking.

  • Prefrontal Cortex: Functions in foresight, judgment, speech, and complex thought.

  • Motor Cortex: Controls voluntary movements.

  • Broca’s Area: Crucial for speech production; damage leads to loss of speech.

• Twin Studies: Research method investigating the role of heredity in behavior using identical and fraternal twins.

Nervous System Structure

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Comprises the brain and spinal cord; sends orders to the body.

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves branching off the brain and spine connecting CNS to body’s nerves and muscles.

• Afferent (Sensory) Neurons: Send signals from sensory receptors to CNS (approaches).

• Efferent (Motor) Neurons: Send signals from CNS to PNS (exits).

• Somatic Nervous System: Manages voluntary movements and the five senses.

• Autonomic Nervous System: Controls involuntary activities (heart rate, digestion, breathing).

• Sympathetic Nervous System: Prepares body for action (fight or flight response); increases heart rate, breathing, and dilates pupils.

• Parasympathetic Nervous System: Calms the body, slows heart rate, and promotes digestion (rest and digest).

• Reuptake: Process where neurons absorb excess neurotransmitters back if they're not needed, regulating neurotransmitter levels.

• Key Neurotransmitters:

  • Serotonin: Influences mood, hunger, and sleep.

  • Dopamine: Affects movement, learning, attention, and emotions.

  • GABA: Main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, regulating neuronal excitability.