AP Psychology Unit 1 Summary

This comprehensive set of notes covers fundamental topics in psychology. It begins by examining the interaction of heredity and environment (nature vs. nurture), detailing concepts like evolutionary psychology, behavior genetics, and findings from twin and adoption studies. Next, it delves into the nervous system, distinguishing between the Central (CNS) and Peripheral (PNS) Nervous Systems, and their subdivisions (Autonomic and Somatic). A significant portion is dedicated to the neuron and neural firing, explaining neuron structure (dendrites, axon, myelin sheath), the action potential, and the roles of key neurotransmitters (Dopamine, Serotonin, Acetylcholine, etc.). The endocrine system is presented as a slower, hormone-based communication system. The notes also cover psychoactive drugs, categorized by their effects (depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens), and factors influencing drug use.

The document then moves to the brain, describing its protective mechanisms, various imaging techniques (EEG, MRI, fMRI, PET, CT), and stimulation therapies (DBS, TMS). It details the functions of the cerebral cortex's four lobes(Frontal, Parietal, Occipital, Temporal), and important subcortical structures like the brainstem (Medulla, Pons, Reticular Formation), cerebellum, and limbic system (Thalamus, Hippocampus, Amygdala, Hypothalamus). Key figures in brain research and concepts like hemispheric specialization and brain plasticity are also introduced.

Sleep is explored through circadian rhythms, sleep cycles, and brainwave patterns (Beta, Alpha, Theta, Delta). It outlines the stages of sleep (NREM-1, NREM-2, NREM-3, REM), consequences of sleep deprivation, theories on why we sleep, and common sleep disorders (Insomnia, Narcolepsy, Night Terrors).

Finally, the notes cover sensation, defining absolute and difference thresholds, Weber's Law, and sensory adaptation. It provides a detailed account of the structure and function of the eye (cornea, iris, pupil, lens, retina, rods, cones) and hearing (outer, middle, inner ear, cochlea). Theories of color vision (Trichromatic, Opponent-Process) and hearing (Frequency, Place) are discussed, along with types of hearing loss. Other senses like touch (pain, vibration, temperature pain, perception of pressure.) Sight (seeing colors, the movements of objects, and the details of our surroundings), Hearing(detecting speech, recognizing different instruments in a song),