4.3 Subcortical Structures

Question 1

Hypothalamus(think h: homeostatis)

Answer 1

• motivation and homeostasis (regulating body functions eg hunger)
• directs the ANS, endocrine system and hormones to carry out the motivational and homeostatic tasks

Question 2

Hippocampus

Answer 2

• seahorse (shaped)
• essential to formation of LONG-TERM memories
• memories are not stored here
• manages our stress

Question 3

Amygdala

Answer 3

• almond shapes
• embedded in temporal lobe
• receives sensory info from thalamus, and produces emotional and motivational output => cerebral cortex
• associated with perception of threat and fear
• role in social behavior, emotion, learning abt reward

Question 4

Thalamus

Answer 4

• almost at the center of the brain
• input from most sensory systems travels to the thalamus first, then to the cerebral cortex
• involved in memory, and states of consciousness

Question 5

Basal ganglia

Answer 5

collection of subcortical structures
- reward and control of movement

Question 6

Nucleus Accumbens

Answer 6

• reward and pleasure circuitry
• activity of nucleus accumbens is related to person’s sense of social inclusion