Biological Foundations of Behavior Flashcards
Neurons
nerve cells, carry messages from the brain that command things.
Brain
- the mass of nerve tissue encased in the skull that controls virtually everything we are and everything we do.
- divided into 3 major parts, the hindbrain, the midbrain and the forebrain.
Soma
the cell body of a neuron that contains the nucleus of the cell and carries out the cells metabolic function.
Axon
the tube like part of a neuron that carries messages away from one cell of the body towards other neurons.
Neuro Transmitters
chemical messengers that transport nerve impulses from one cell to the other.
Synapse
the small fluid-filled gap between neurons through which neuro transmitters carry neural impulses.
Motor neurons
neurons that convey nerve impulses from the central nervous system to the muscles and glands.
Glands
body organs or structures that produce secretions called hormones.
Hormones
secretions from endocrine glands that help regulate bodily processes.
Interneurons
nerve cells within the central nervous systems that process information.
Nerve
a bundle of axons from different neurons that transmit nerve impulses.
Myelin Sheath
a layer of protective insulation that covers the axons of certain neurons and helps speed transition of nerve impulses.
Multiple Sclerosis
a disease of the central nervous system in which the myelin sheath that insulates axons is damaged or destroyed.
Schizophrenia
a severe and chronic psychological disorder characterized by disturbances in thinking, perception, emotions and behavior.
Endorphins
- natural chemicals released in the brain that have pain killing effects.
- inhibitory neurotransmitters
- they are similar in structure to narcotic drugs
- produce feelings of well being and pleasure
- its effects are mimicked by morphine and heroin.
- they deaden pain by fitting into receptor sites for chemicals that carry pain messages to the brain, thereby locking out pain messages.
Norepinephine
chemical cousin of adrenaline.
Seratonin
- an inhibitory neuro transmitter in the brain
- serves to regulate mood states, feeling full after meals and sleep
- also works as a behavioral seat belt to curb impulsive behaviors, including impulsive acts of aggression.
The Nervous System
- made of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
Central Nervous System
- the body’s master control unit
- contains the spinal cord and brain.
Spinal Cord
- a column of nerves between the brain and peripheral nerve system.
Peripheral Nervous System
- the body’s link to the outside world
- contains the autonomic nervous system and the somatic nervous system.
- a network of nerves connecting the central system to sensory organs, muscles and glands throughout the body.