Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM

Browse over 1 million classes created by top students, professors, publishers, and experts.


See full index

Psychology - Paper 2 > Biopsychology > Flashcards

Biopsychology Flashcards

You may prefer our related Brainscape-certified flashcards:
Psychology 101 flashcards GRE® Psychology flashcards AP® Psychology flashcards
1
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What does the Nervous System consist of?

A

Consists of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Central Nervous System
?

A

Consists of the brain and the spinal cord and is the origin of all complex commands and decisions. It passes messages to and from the brain and connects nerves to the PNS.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Brain?

A

The centre of all conscious awareness. The cerebral cortex is highly developed in humans and is what distinguished out higher mental functions from those of animals. It is divided into two hemispheres.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Spinal Cord?

A

An extension of the brain. It is responsible for reflex actions such as pulling your hand away from a hot plate.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Peripheral Nervous System?

A

Sends information to the CNS from the outside world and transmits messages from the CNS to muscles and glands in the body. It does this via millions of neurons (nerve cells) and is divided into the ANS and SNS.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Somatic Nervous System?

A

Transmits information from receptor cells in the sense organs to the CNS. It also receives information from the CNS that direct muscles to contract. Controls muscle movement and receives information from sensory receptors.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Autonomic Nervous System?

A

Transmits information to and from internal bodily organs. It is ‘autonomic’ as the system operated involuntarily. It has two main divisions; the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Governs vital functions of the body such as breathing, heart rate, digestion, sexual arousal and stress responses.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Parasympathetic Nervous System?

A

A division of the ANS which controls the relaxed state (rest and digest), conserving resources and promoting digestion and metabolism. The parasympathetic branch words in the opposition to the sympathetic branch of the ANS. One or other is active at any time.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Sympathetic Nervous System?

A

A division of the ANS which activates internal organs for vigorous activities and emergencies, such as the fight or flight response. It consists of nerves that control, for example, increased heart rate and breathing, and decreased digestive activity. The sympathetic branch works in opposition to the parasympathetic branch of the ANS.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Human Nervous System?

A

A specialised network of cells in the human body and is our primary internal communication system.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What are the Human Nervous System’s functions?

A
  • To collect, process and respond to information in the environment
  • To coordinate the working of different organs and cells in the body
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Human Nervous System divided into?

A

It is divided into the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Central Nervous System consist of?

A

The Brain and Spinal Cord.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

How does the Human Nervous System differ to an animal’s?

A

A human’s brain has a cerebral cortex, outer layer of the brain, and is what distinguishes human mental functions from those of animals.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

How is the Brain divided?

A

Into two hemispheres – the left and the right.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

How is the Brain’s hemispheres divided?

A

Each hemisphere has four lobes – frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Spine responsible for?

A

Reflex actions for example pulling your hand away from a hot plate. It passes messages to and from the brain and connects nerves to the Peripheral Nervous System.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What does the Peripheral Nervous System do?

A

Transmits messages via millions of neurons (nerve cells), to and from the central nervous system.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

How is the Peripheral Nervous System subdivided?

A

It is subdivided into two: Autonomic nervous system & Somatic nervous system.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What does the Autonomic Nervous System do?

A

Governs vital functions in the body such as breathing, heart rate, digestion, sexual arousal and stress responses – involuntary effect.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

How is the Autonomic Nervous System divided?

A

It is subdivided into two: Sympathetic Nervous System & Parasympathetic Nervous System.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Sympathetic Nervous System?

A

It activates internal organs and increases bodily activities.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What is the Parasympathetic Nervous System?

A

It relaxes internal organs and decreases bodily activities.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

What does the Somatic Nervous System do?

A

Transmits information from receptor cells in the sense organs to the central nervous system. It receives information from the central nervous system that directs muscles to act – voluntary effect.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

Psychology - Lesson 1

List the Human Nervous System’s order:

A

1) Human Nervous System
2) Peripheral Nervous System & Central Nervous System
3) Peripheral Nervous System: Autonomic Nervous System & Somatic Nervous System
3) Central Nervous System: Brain & Spinal Cord
4) Autonomic Nervous System: Sympathetic Nervous System & Parasympathetic Nervous System

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the Endocrine System?

A

One of the body’s major information systems that instructs glands to release hormones directly into the blood stream. These hormones are carried towards target organs in the body.

The Endocrine System works alongside the Nervous System to control vital functions; works more slowly than the Nervous System but has very widespread and powerful effects.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is a Gland?

A

An organ in the body that syntheses (makes) substances such as hormones.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is a Hormone?

A

Chemical substances that circulate in the bloodstream and only affect target organs or any cell in the body that has a receptor for that particular hormone. They are produced in large quantities but disappear quickly. Most hormones affect cells in several organs or throughout the entire body, leading to many diverse and powerful responses.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the Pituitary Gland?

(Master Gland)

A

The main endocrine gland and is located in the brain and controls the release of hormones from all of the other endocrine glands in the body.It releases lots of different hormones.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
30
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What hormones does the Pituitary Gland release?

A

Lots of different horomones.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
31
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the impact of the hormones released by the Pituitary Gland?

A

Stimulate the release of hormones from other glands in the Endocrine System.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
32
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What hormone does the Pineal Gland release?

A

Melatonin.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
33
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the impact of Melatonin released by the Pineal Gland?

A

Responsible for important biological rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
34
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What hormone does the Thyroid Gland release?

A

Thyroxin.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
35
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the impact of Thyroxin released by the Thyroid Gland?

A

Responsible for regulating metabolism.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
36
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What hormone does the Testes release?

A

Testosterone.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
37
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the impact of Testosterone released by the Testes?

A

Responsible for the development of male sex characteristics during puberty while also promoting muscle growth.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
38
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What hormone does the Ovaries release?

A

Oestrogen.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
39
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the impact of Oestrogen released by the Ovaries?

A

Controls the regulation of the female reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
40
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What hormone does the Adrenal Gland release?

A

Adrenaline.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
41
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the impact of Adrenaline released by the Adrenal Gland?

A

Responsible for fight or flight response - stimulates the heart rate, contracts blood vessels and dilates air passages among other impacts.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
42
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What hormone does the Pancreas release?

A

Insulin.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
43
Q

Psychology - Lesson 2

What is the impact of Insulin released by the Pancreas?

A

Allows the body to use glucose from carbohydrates in food for energy or to store glucose for future use. It helps keep blood sugar levels stable.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
44
Q

Psychology - Lesson 3

What is the Flight or Fight response?

A

The way an animal responds when stressed. The body becomes physiologically aroused in readiness to fight an aggressor, or in some cases, flee. The response is reflexive – meaning that it occurs without conscious awareness or thought.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
45
Q

Psychology - Lesson 3

What does the Flight or Fight response show?

A

How the endocrine system and the autonomic nervous system work together.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
46
Q

Psychology - Lesson 3

What are the stages of the FIght or Flight response?

(9 stages)

A

1) The hypothalamus recognises that there is a threat in the environment.
2) The ANS activates the sympathetic nervous system.
3) The sympathetic nervous system tells the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH).
4) This sends a message to the adrenal gland.
5) The adrenal gland responds by releasing adrenaline.
6) The adrenaline travels via the bloodstream and targets organs in the body which have adrenaline receptors.
7) This causes many physical changes to occur.
8) The above process is the fight or flight response and allows the body to act.
9) Once the threat has passed, the parasympathetic nervous system brings the body back to normal, resting, functions (rest and digest).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
47
Q

Psychology - Lesson 3

Where is Adrenaline released from?

A

The Adrenal Medulla in response to activation of the sympathomedullary (SAM) pathway.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
48
Q

Psychology - Lesson 3

What is the SAM pathway?

(Adrenaline - sympathomedullary pathway)

A

A bodily system process within the sympathetic branch of the Autonomic Nervous System designed to facilitate coping with stressful situations by the release of adrenaline, which aids the fight or flight response. Often life-saving as it means an individual can react with speed when they come under threat, or they perceive that they are under threat.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
49
Q

Psychology - Lesson 3

What are the direct effects of Adrenaline?

(5)

A
  • increased heart rate
  • constricts blood vessels, increasing rate of blood flow and raising blood pressure
  • diverts blood away from the skin, kidneys and digestive system
  • increases blood to brain and skeletal muscle
  • increases respiration and sweating
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
50
Q

Psychology - Lesson 3

What are the indirect effects of Adrenaline?

A
  • prepare the body for action, fight or flight,
  • increase blood supply/oxygen, to skeletal muscle for physical action
  • increase oxygen to brain for rapid response planning
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
51
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is a Neuron?

A

The basic building blocks of the nervous system, neurons are nerve cells that process and transmit messages through electrical and chemical signals.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
52
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is a Sensory Neuron?

A

These carry messages from the PNS to the CNS. They have long dendrites and short axons.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
53
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is a Relay Neuron?

A

These connect the sensory neurons to the motor or other relay neurons. They have short dendrites and short axons.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
54
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is a Motor Neuron?

A

These connect the CNS to effectors such as muscles and glands. They have short dendrites and long axons.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
55
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is a Cell Body?

A

This is known as the factory of the neuron. It contains the nucleus and produces all of the necessary proteins that a neuron requires to function.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
56
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is a Nucleus?

A

This contains the genetic material within the neuron.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
57
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What are Dendrites?

A

These branch-like features protrude from the cell body. They carry nerve impulses from neighbouring neurons towards the cell body.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
58
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is an Axon?

A

This carries the electrical impulse from the cell body, down the length of the neuron. It is covered in myelin sheath.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
59
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is a Myelin Sheath?

A

This a fatty layer, which surrounds and protects the axon. It helps to speed up the electrical transmission of the impulse.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
60
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What are Nodes of Ranvier?

A

These are the gaps between the myelin sheath. Their purpose is to speed up the transmission of the impulse, by forcing it to ‘jump’ across the gaps along the axon.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
61
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What are Terminal Buttons?

A

These are located at the end of the axon. They communicate with the next neuron that is on the other side of the synaptic cleft.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
62
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the role of a Sensory Neuron?

A

Carry nerve impulses from sensory receptors to the spinal cord and brain = from the PNS to the CNS.

63
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the role of a Relay Neuron?

A

Allow sensory and motor neurons to communicate with each other. They are the most common type of the neuron in the CNS.

64
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the role of a Motor Neuron?

A

Carry nerve impulses from the spinal cord and brain to the effectors (muscles and glands) = from the CNS to the PNS.

65
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the location of the Sensory Neurons?

A

Sensory Neuron receptors are on or near the body’s surface.

66
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

Where is the location of Relay Neurons?

A

Brain, spinal cord and visual system.

67
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

Where is the location of Motor Neurons?

A

Axons directly or indirectly linked to muscles.

68
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the length of the Sensory Neuron’s Axon?

A

Short.

69
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the length of the Sensory Neuron’s Dendrite?

A

Long.

70
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the length of the Relay Neuron’s Axon?

A

Short

71
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the length of the Relay Neuron’s Dendrite?

A

Short.

72
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the length of the Motor Neuron’s Axon?

A

Long.

73
Q

Psychology - Lesson 4

What is the length of the Motor Neuron’s Dendrite?

A

Short.

74
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is Synaptic Transmission?

A

The process by which neighbouring neurons communicate with each other by sending chemical messages across the synaptic cleft them separates them.

75
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What are Neurotransmitters?

A

Brain chemicals released from synaptic vesicles that relay signals across the synapse from one neuron to another. Neurotransmitters can be broadly divided into those that perform an inhibitory or an excitatory function.

76
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is Excitation?

A

When a neurotransmitter, such as adrenaline, increases the positive charge of the postsynaptic neuron. This increases the likelihood that the neuron will fire and pass on the electrical impulse.

77
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is Inhibition?

A

When a neurotransmitter, such as serotonin, makes the change of the postsynaptic neuron more negative. This decreases the likelihood that the neuron will fire and pass on the electrical signal.

78
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is a Synapse?

A

The junction between two neurons. This includes the presynaptic neuron, the synaptic cleft and the postsynaptic receptor site.

79
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is a Synaptic Cleft?

A

The space between the pre-synaptic and post-synaptic neuron.

80
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What are Synaptic Vesicles?

A

Small sacs on the end of a presynaptic neuron that contain neurotransmitters that will be released into a synapse.

81
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is a Pre-synaptic Neuron?

A

The transmitting neuron, before the synaptic cleft.

82
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is a Post-synaptic Neuron?

A

The neuron that is receiving the information at the synapse.

83
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is the Post-synaptic Receptor Site?

A

A receptor on the post-synaptic neuron. A neurotransmitter locks into a specific receptor on the post-synaptic neuron and this triggers an electrical impulse in the post-synaptic neuron.

84
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is the process of Synaptic Transmission?

(Summarised version - 5 stages)

A

1) Action potential arrives at pre-synaptic neuron
2) As a result of the action potential, vesicles (containing neurotransmitters) diffuse towards the pre-synaptic membrane
3) Vesicles bind to the pre-synaptic membrane and the neurotransmitters are released
4) Neurotransmitters chemically diffuse across the synapse
5) Neurotransmitters bind to complementary receptors on the post-synaptic neuron membrane and an electrical impulse is subsequently passed on

85
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is the process of Synaptic Transmission?

(Detailed version - 5 stages)

A

Look at notes.

86
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is a Neurotransmitter’s molecular structure like?

A

Each neurotransmitter has its own specific molecular structure that fits perfectly into a post-synaptic receptor site, similar to a lock and key.

87
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

How many ways can information travel at a Synapse?

A

Information can only travel in one direction at a synapse.

88
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What are two effects Neurotransmitters can have?

A

Excitation & Inhibition.

89
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is the effect of Excitation?

A

Increase the likelihood of a neuron firing.

90
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is the effect of Inhibition?

A

Decrease the likelihood of a neuron firing.

91
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What do Excitatory neurotransmitters cause?

e.g Adrenaline

A

Excitation of the post-synaptic neuron by increasing its positive charge and making it more likely to fire.

92
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What do Inhibitory neurotransmitters cause?

e.g Serotonin

A

Inhibition in the post-synaptic neuron. The neuron becomes negatively charged and less likely to fire.

93
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What are the two impacts of drugs on Synaptic Transmission?

A

1) Increase the amount of neurotransmitter – block the reuptake channels
2) Decrease the amount of neurotransmitter – block the receptors

94
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is an example of a drug blocking the reuptake channels?

(Increasing neurotransmitters)

A

SSRIs (antidepressants) for OCD block the reuptake channels so serotonin remains in the synapse and can continue to bind with more receptors – too little serotonin is thought to cause OCD.

95
Q

Psychology - Lesson 5

What is an example of a drug blocking the receptors ?

(Decreasing neurotransmitters)

A

Antipsychotics drugs in schizophrenia block the receptors to prevent dopamine binding – too much dopamine is thought to cause schizophrenia.

96
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What have advances in technology lead to for the brain?

A

Advances in science and technology have brought with them even more sophisticated and precise methods of studying the brain.

97
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What can modern scanning techniques do?

A

Are able to record global neural activity through the assessment of brainwave patterns whilst others are able to home in on activity in specific parts of the brain as the brain performs certain tasks and processes.

98
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What is a fMRI?

A

Measures brain activity in specific areas by detecting associated changes in blood flow.

99
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

How does a fMRI work?

A

By detecting changes in blood oxygenation and blood flow that indicate increased neural activity. People are asked to do a task and it is observed where the brain activity is.

100
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

How does a fMRI show brain activity?

A

When a brain area is more active it consumes more oxygen and to meet this increased demand blood flow is directed to the active area (haemodynamic response).

101
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What does a fMRI produce?

A

It produces 3-dimensional images (activation maps) showing which parts of the brain are involved in particular mental process which is important for establishing localisation of function.

102
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the advantages of fMRIs?

(Two)

A
  • fMRI is non-invasive. Unlike other scanning techniques (e.g. PET) fMRI does not rely on the use of radiation and is safe. This makes it an appropriate method to measure brain activity.
  • fMRI produces images with high spatial resolution. It can show detail by the millimetre. This means fMRI can provide a clear picture of how brain activity is localised.
103
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the disadvantages of fMRIs?

A
  • fMRI is expensive. fMRI is expensive compared to other techniques and can only capture an image if the person stays still. This limits the appropriateness of fMRI.
  • fMRI has poor temporal resolution. This is because there is a 5 second lag between initial neural activity and image. This means fMRI may not truly represent moment-to-moment brain activity.
104
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

How does a EEG work?

(Electroencephalography)

A

It records changes in electrical activity using electrodes attached to the scalp.

105
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

How does a EEG show brain activity?

(Electroencephalography)

A

The scan recording represents the brainwave patterns that are generated from the action of millions of neurons, providing an overall account of brain activity.

106
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What is EEG used for?

(Electroencephalography)

A

It is often used as a diagnostic tool as unusual arrhythmic patterns may indicate neurological abnormalities e.g. epilepsy.

107
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the advantages of EEG?

(Electroencephalography)

A
  • EEG is invaluable in diagnosing conditions. For example it has been used to identify epilepsy and also in understanding the stages of sleep. This shows that EEGs are an appropriate way to measure brain activity.
  • EEG has extremely high temporal resolution. EEGs can detect brain activity as a resolution of a single millisecond. This means that it is more able to represent moment-to-moment brain activity.
108
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the disadvantages of EEG?

(Electroencephalography)

A
  • EEG information is received from many thousands of neurons. The EEG produces a generalised signal from thousands of neurons this means it’s difficult to know the exact source of neural activity. Therefore EEG cannot distinguish between the activity of different but adjacent neurons.
  • EEGs do not provide a complete picture of brain activity. They only monitor electrical activity in outer layers of the brain. Therefore they cannot reveal electrical activity in deeper brain sites.
109
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What is an EEG?

(Electroencephalography)

A

A record of the brain wave patterns produced by millions of neurons, producing characteristic patterns.

110
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What is an ERP?

(Event-Related Potentials)

A

Isolating specific responses of neurons to specific stimuli or tasks.

111
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

How does a ERP work?

(Event-related Potentials)

A

It records changes in electrical activity using electrodes attached to the scalp but uses a specific stimulus (sensory, cognitive or motor) to see where the activity is.

112
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

How does a ERP show brain activity?

(Event-Related Potentials)

A

Using a statistical averaging technique, all extraneous brain activity from the original EEG recording is filtered out leaving only those responses that related to a specific stimulus or task.

113
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the advantages of ERP?

(Event-Related Potentials)

A
  • ERPs are a very specific measurement of neural processes. They are more specific than what can be achieved using raw EEG data. This means that it is a better method of investigating the brain.
  • ERPs have excellent temporal resolution. ERPs can detect brain activity as a resolution of a single millisecond. This means that it is more able to represent moment-to-moment brain activity.
114
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the disadvantages of ERP?

(Event-Related Potentials)

A
  • ERPs lack standardisation in methodology between studies. This makes it difficult to confirm findings in studies involving ERPs. Therefore the reliability of the information regarding the brain’s structure and function is lowered.
  • ERPs have background noise and extraneous material must be completely eliminated. This may not always be easy to achieve. This limits the appropriateness of the method for investigating the brain.
115
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What is Post-mortem examination?

A

Correlating behaviours before death with brain structures after death.

116
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

How does a Post Mortem work?

A

They examine abnormalities in the structure of the brain which try to explain psychological abnormalities that people have before death. They may also involve comparison with a neurotypical (normal) brain in order to ascertain the extent of the difference.

117
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the advantages of Post Mortem?

A
  • Post-mortems provided the foundation for understanding the brain. Broca and Wernicke both relied on post-mortem studies. This shows that post-mortem studies have improved medical knowledge and helped to generate hypotheses for further study.
  • Post-mortems allow for in-depth study of the brain. Detailed examinations and measurements of deep brain structures for example the hypothalamus that are not measurable by brain scans can occur. This provides us with knowledge of the brain that cannot be gained from less invasive options.
118
Q

Psychology - Lesson 6

What are the disadvantages of Post Mortem?

A
  • In post-mortems causation may be an issue. Observed damage in the brain may not be linked to the deficits under review but some other related to trauma or decay. This limits the appropriateness of the method.
  • Post-mortem studies raise ethical issues of consent. Before death, patients need to give informed consent, but there is a reason that psychologists want to investigate their brains in the first place. This meant that they may not be able to provide informed consent, for example HM lost ability to form memories so couldn’t provide consent.
119
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is Localisation?

A

The theory that specific areas of the brain are associated with particular physical and psychological functions

120
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What are the Two Schools of Thought?

A

Holistic Theory & Localisation of Function.

121
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Holistic Theory?

A

All parts of the brain are involved in the processing of thought and action

122
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Localisation of Function?

A

Specific areas of the brain are associated and responsible with particular physical and psychological functions such as behaviours, processes or activities – damage to these areas causes consequences for behaviour.

123
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What did scientists believe about the brain before the 19th century?

A

Supported the holistic view of the brain (all parts of the brain were involved in processing thoughts and actions).

124
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What did scientists believe about the brain after the 19th century?

A

Discovered that certain areas of the brain held particular functions - Localisation of Brain Function.

125
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where did Functional Localisation originate from?

A

Phrenology: the detailed study of the shape and size of the cranium as a supposed indication of character and mental abilities.

126
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What are the 3 layers of the human brain?

A

The Central Core, the Limbric System & and the Cerebrum.

127
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Central Core known as and include?

(Structure)

A

It is known as the brain stem, and it includes structures such as the hypothalamus in the midbrain.

128
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What does the Central Core do?

A

It regulates our most primitive and involuntary behaviours such as breathing, sleeping, or sneezing.

129
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Limbric System and what is the structure?

A

Around the Central Core of the brain, and contains the hippocampus and other structures (key roles in memory).

130
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What does the Limbric System do?

A

Controls our emotions.

131
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Cerebral Cortex and what is the structure?

A

The brain’s third layer, the cerebrum. It is made out of the left and right hemispheres (surrounded by the cerebral cortex which covers the inner parts of the brain).

132
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

How is a human’s Cerebral Cortex different from an animals?

A

The cortex is about 3mm thick and is what separates us from other animals because the human cortex is much more developed.

133
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

How is the Cerebral Cortex’s hemispheres subdivided?

A

Into 4 lobes: frontal lobe, parietal lobe, occipital lobe, and the temporal lobe. Each lobe is associated with a different function, and each lobe can be broken down into different sections.

134
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Motor Cortex located?

(In a lobe)

A

At the back of the frontal lobe.

135
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Motor Cortex’s Role?

A

Controls voluntary movement in the contralateral (opposite) side of the body.

136
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What happens when the Motor Cortex is damaged?

A

Loss of fine movements.

137
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Somatosensory Cortex
located?

(In a lobe)

A

At the front of the parietal lobe.

138
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Somatosensory Cortex’s Role?

A

Represents sensory information from the skin (touch, heat, pressure). The more sensitive an area, the more space it takes up in the somatosensory cortex.

139
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What happens when the Somatosensory Cortex is damaged?

A

Loss of senses.

140
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Visual Cortex
located?

(In a lobe)

A

In the occipital lobe.

141
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Visual Cortex’s Role?

A

Information from the right visual field is sent to the left visual cortex and vice versa. Receives and processes impulses from the optic nerves.

142
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What happens when the Visual Cortex is damaged?

A

Loss of specific areas of the visual field.

143
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Auditory Cortex
located?

(In a lobe)

A

In the temporal lobe.

144
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Auditory Cortex’s Role?

A

Analyses speech based information.

145
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What happens when the Auditory Cortex is damaged?

A

Partial hearing loss.

146
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Wernicke’s Area
located?

(In a lobe)

A

In the left temporal lobe.

147
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Wernicke’s Area’s Role?

A

Responsible for language comprehension (understanding language).

148
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What happens when the Wernicke’s Area is damaged?

A

Damage means that people produce nonsense words i.e. they can speak fluently, but the words are meaningless to them.

149
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

Where is the Broca’s Area
located?

(In a lobe)

A

Small area of the left frontal lobe.

150
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is the Broca’s Area’s Role?

A

Responsible for speech production.

151
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What happens when the Broca’s Area is damaged?

A

Damage results in slow speech that lacks fluency.

152
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What are the Language Areas of the Brain?

A

Broca and Wernicke’s areas are examples of localisation. They are located within specific areas of the brain.
Broca – frontal lobe
Wernicke – temporal lobe
But they only occur in the left hemisphere. This makes them “special”.

153
Q

Psychology - Lesson 7

What is Lateralisation?

A

If something is specialised to one hemisphere.

Psychology - Paper 2 (3 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2024 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions