Behavior Flashcards
genes
sequence of DNA that controls or partially controls physical characteristics
allele
specific type of gene
genotype
genetic makeup of an individual
phenotype
individual’s inheritable physical characteristics
polygenetic
traits controlled by more than one gene
mutation
sudden, permanent change in a gene
range of reaction
our genes set the boundaries within which we can operate, and our
environment interacts with the genes to determine where in that range we will fall
genetic environmental correlation
our genes influence our environment, and our environment
influences the expression of our genes
epigenetics
study of how the same genotype can lead to very different phenotypes
Glial cells
nervous system cell that provides physical and metabolic support to neurons, including
neuronal insulation and communication, and nutrient and waste transport
neuron
cells that are essential for all tasks in the nervous system that act as interconnected information processors
Agonists
chemicals that mimic a neurotransmitter at the receptor site
antagonist
chemicals that block or impede the normal activity of a neurotransmitter at the receptor
central nervous system (CNS)
brain and spinal cord
peripheral nervous system (PNS)
connects the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, organs and senses
in the rest of the body
somatic nervous system
subdivision of PNS involved in stress-related activities and functions
autonomic nervous system
subdivision of PNS controls our internal organs and glands
sympathetic nervous system
involved in stress-related activities and functions
parasympathetic nervous system
associated with routine, day-to-day operations of the body
Homeostasis
state of equilibrium in the body when the biological conditions are maintained at
optimal levels
fight or flight response
When the sympathetic nervous system is activated allowing access to energy reserves and heightened sensory capacity
midbrain
structures located deep within the brain between the forebrain and hindbrain
hindbrain
located at the back of the head and contains
the medulla, pons, and cerebellum
brainstem
medulla, pons and midbrain
cerebellum
“little brain” receives messages from muscles, tendons, and structures in the ear
endocrine system
series of glands that produce hormones
hormones
chemical substances that carry messages throughout the body and are released close to their receptors
