biopsychology pp2 Flashcards
What is the central nervous system (CNS)?
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord; it controls most functions of the body and mind.
What is the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?
The PNS transmits messages via neurons to and from the CNS.
What are the two subdivisions of the PNS?
The somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
What does the somatic nervous system do?
It controls voluntary movement of skeletal muscles.
What does the autonomic nervous system (ANS) do?
It controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion.
What are the two branches of the autonomic nervous system?
The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
What is the function of the sympathetic nervous system?
It prepares the body for ‘fight or flight’ by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, etc.
What is the function of the parasympathetic nervous system?
It returns the body to a resting state after arousal, known as ‘rest and digest’.
What is a neuron?
A nerve cell that transmits electrical and chemical signals.
What are the three types of neurons?
Sensory, relay, and motor neurons.
What is synaptic transmission?
The process by which one neuron communicates with another via neurotransmitters across a synapse.
What is a neurotransmitter?
A chemical that transmits signals across the synaptic gap.
What is the endocrine system?
A system of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream.
What is a hormone?
A chemical messenger released by glands, affecting target organs.
What is the fight or flight response?
A physiological reaction to a perceived threat, preparing the body for action.
What is localisation of function in the brain?
The idea that specific functions are associated with specific areas of the brain.
What is the function of the motor cortex?
Controls voluntary movement.
What is the function of the somatosensory cortex?
Processes sensory information from the skin.
What is the function of the visual cortex?
Processes visual information.
What is the function of the auditory cortex?
Processes auditory information.
What is Broca’s area?
An area in the left frontal lobe involved in speech production.
What is Wernicke’s area?
An area in the left temporal lobe involved in language comprehension.
What is brain plasticity?
The brain’s ability to change and adapt as a result of experience.
What is functional recovery?
The brain’s ability to transfer functions from a damaged area to an undamaged one.
