Biological Flashcards
Two assumptions ( biological )
- Behaviour is influenced by our CNS, genes and neurochemistry.
- Behaviour is a product of evolution and natural selection
What are traits
Personality traits are the combination of characteristics or qualities that form an individual’s distinctive character.
What is introversion ?
Introverts are withdrawn, shy, quiet and uncomfortable with new sensations.
- overactive nervous system.
What is extraversion?
Extraverts are outgoing, sociable, loud, friendly and they constantly seek new experiences and sensations.
- underactive nervous system.
What is a gene?
A strand of DNA that has been inherited.
What is a genotype?
A persons unique genetic makeup, which is inherited from their parents
What is a phenotype?
A persons phenotype is how their genes are actually expressed. A phenotype is therefore an interaction of genotype and environmental influences.
What is a SRY gene?
SRY gene triggers the appearance of testes in an embryo and the development of that individual into a biological male.
What is Neuroplasticity?
It’s the brains ability to change/ grow and reorganise itself via experience.
E.g. when learning a new language.
What is Lateralisation?
It’s the idea that the two halves of the brain are functionally different.
Left: language, speech etc.
Right: helps interpret facial expressions etc.
What is Localisation of Function?
Specific parts of the brain have different functions.
What is Serotonin?
Serotonin is one of the main neurotransmitters in the body. It has been linked to a number of behaviours and disorders but at normal levels, serotonin calms brain activity which stabilises our mood.
What is Dopamine?
Dopamine is an important chemical messenger in the brain that has many functions. It’s involved in reward, motivation, memory, attention and regulating body movements.
What is adrenaline?
Adrenaline increases your heart rate, elevates your blood pressure and boosts energy supplies.
What is cortisol?
Cortisol increases sugars in the bloodstream, enhances your brains use of glucose and increases the availability of substances that repair tissues.
What is the Environment of Evolutionary Adaptation (EEA) ?
The habitat in which a species evolved its most recent adaptations.
What is Genome lag?
Traits that were once adaptive in a certain environment are now maladaptive.
What is sexual selection?
Attributes or behaviours that increase reproductive success.
