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Semester 1: Biological Psychology
Biological Foundations of Behaviour - Meaning, Mind Brain Relationship, Research Methods
Biological Foundations of Behaviour
Meaning
The biological foundations of behaviour refer to the interplay between biological processes and behaviour. This includes the role of genetics, brain structure and function, hormones, and the nervous system in influencing how individuals think, feel, and act.
Mind-Brain Relationship
The mind-brain relationship explores how mental processes are linked to brain activity. Theories include dualism, which posits a distinction between mind and brain, and materialism, which suggests that mental states are rooted in physical brain states. Neuroplasticity illustrates this relationship as the brain can change in response to experiences.
Research Methods
Research in biological psychology employs various methods such as experiments, case studies, and neuroimaging techniques (like MRI and PET scans) to investigate the relationship between biological processes and behaviour. These methods help understand how different brain regions contribute to behaviours, emotions, and cognitive functions.
Basics of Nervous System and Neurotransmission - Development, CNS, PNS, Neurons, Brain Structure
Basics of Nervous System and Neurotransmission
Development of the Nervous System
The nervous system develops from the neural tube during embryonic development. This process involves the differentiation of neural stem cells into neurons and glial cells. Proper formation is crucial for functional neural networks.
Central Nervous System (CNS)
The CNS comprises the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and coordinating actions. The brain consists of various regions, including the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem, each serving distinct functions.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
The PNS connects the CNS to the rest of the body. It includes sensory and motor neurons. The PNS is divided into somatic and autonomic systems, where the somatic system controls voluntary movements, and the autonomic system regulates involuntary functions.
Neurons
Neurons are the basic functional units of the nervous system. They consist of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. Neurons communicate through electrochemical signals, with action potentials allowing for the transmission of information.
Neurotransmission
Neurotransmission is the process by which signals are transmitted across synapses via neurotransmitters. These chemical messengers bind to receptor sites on post-synaptic neurons, influencing their activity. Key neurotransmitters include dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine.
Brain Structure
The brain's structure is organized into distinct regions, each responsible for specific functions. The cerebrum is involved in higher cognitive functions, while the cerebellum coordinates movement. The brainstem controls basic life functions like heart rate and breathing.
Regulation of Internal Body States - Temperature, Thirst, Hunger
Regulation of Internal Body States - Temperature, Thirst, Hunger
Homeostasis
Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes. This involves physiological processes that regulate temperature, fluid balance, and energy intake.
Thermoregulation
Thermoregulation is the process by which the body maintains its core internal temperature. This involves mechanisms such as sweating, shivering, and adjusting blood flow to the skin. The hypothalamus plays a key role in detecting temperature changes.
Regulation of Thirst
The sensation of thirst is a physiological response to dehydration and is regulated by several mechanisms, including osmotic pressure and blood volume. Osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus detect changes in blood salinity, triggering the thirst response.
Hunger Regulation
Hunger is regulated by complex interactions between hormones, nutrients, and neural signals. Key hormones include ghrelin, which stimulates appetite, and leptin, which promotes satiety. The hypothalamus integrates these signals to maintain energy balance.
Psychological Factors
Psychological factors such as stress, mood, and environmental cues can influence hunger and thirst. Emotional states may lead to changes in eating behaviors, impacting overall regulation of body states.
Hormones and Behaviour - Types, Endocrine Glands, Hormonal Communication
Hormones and Behaviour
Introduction to Hormones
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands in the endocrine system. They travel through the bloodstream to target organs and tissues, initiating various physiological responses.
Types of Hormones
Hormones can be classified into several types: peptide hormones, steroid hormones, and amine hormones, each with distinct structures and functions. Peptide hormones are water-soluble, while steroid hormones are lipid-soluble, affecting their mechanism of action.
Endocrine Glands
The primary endocrine glands include the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. Each gland secretes specific hormones that regulate various bodily functions such as metabolism, growth, reproduction, and stress response.
Hormonal Communication
Hormonal communication involves the release of hormones from glands, which then bind to receptor sites on target cells, triggering a response. This communication system is slower than neural communication but has longer-lasting effects.
Impact of Hormones on Behavior
Hormones significantly influence behavior, including mood, aggression, stress responses, and sexual behavior. For example, cortisol is linked to stress, while oxytocin is associated with bonding and social behaviors.
Hormonal Regulation and Feedback Mechanisms
Hormonal levels are regulated through feedback mechanisms, primarily negative feedback, which helps maintain homeostasis. For instance, increased levels of a hormone may inhibit further release from the gland.
Conclusion
Understanding hormones and their effects on behavior is crucial for comprehending various psychological processes and can inform treatments for psychological disorders, highlighting the interplay between biology and psychology.
Brain Damage - Causes and Effects, Neurodegenerative diseases
Brain Damage - Causes and Effects, Neurodegenerative Diseases
Definition of Brain Damage
Brain damage refers to the destruction or deterioration of brain cells, which can impair cognitive function, motor skills, and emotional regulation.
Causes of Brain Damage
Common causes include traumatic brain injury, stroke, hypoxia, infections, and substance abuse. Each cause leads to different types of brain injury.
Types of Brain Damage
Brain damage can be classified as either focal (localized) or diffuse (widespread), impacting specific brain regions or affecting the entire brain.
Effects of Brain Damage
Effects can vary widely based on the injury's severity and location, leading to memory loss, changes in behavior, difficulty with coordination, and emotional issues.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
These are disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration of the structure and function of the nervous system, often resulting in cognitive decline.
Common Neurodegenerative Diseases
Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are notable examples, each with distinct symptoms and progression.
Risk Factors for Neurodegeneration
Age, genetic predisposition, environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise are common risk factors.
Impact of Neurodegenerative Diseases
They have profound effects on individuals, families, and healthcare systems, leading to loss of independence and increased care needs.
