Chapter 2: Neuroscience & Biological Foundations Flashcards
Behavioral Genetics
The study of the relative effects of genetic and environmental influences on behavior and mental processes
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
Subdivision of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) that controls involuntary functions.
*It includes the Sympathetic Nervous System and the Parasympathetic Nervous System.
Central Nervous System (CNS)
The brain and spinal cord
Cerebral Cortex
The thin surface layer on the cerebral hemispheres that regulates most complex behavior
*includes receiving sensations, motor control, and higher mental processes
Evolutionary Psychology
A subfield of psychology studying how natural selection and adaptation help explain behavior and mental processes
Hormone
Chemicals manufactured by endocrine glands and circulated in the bloodstream to produce bodily changes or maintain normal bodily function
Localization of Function
Specialization of various parts of the brain for particular functions
Neurogenesis
The division and differentiation of non-neuronal neurons
Neuron
Nerve cell that processes and transmits information;
Basic building block of the nervous system responsible for receiving and transmitting electrochemical information
Neuroplasticity
The brain’s ability to reorganize and change it’s structure and function throughout the lifespan
Neurotransmitter
Chemicals that neurons release that affect other neurons
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
All the nerves and neurons outside the brain and spinal cord that connect the CNS to the rest of the body
Somatic Nervous System (SNS)
Subdivision of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) that connects the sensory receptors and controls the skeletal muscles
Stem Cell
Precursor (immature) cells that give birth to new specialized cells;
A cell holds all the information it needs to make bone, blood, brain (any part of the human body) and can also copy itself to maintain a stock of stem cells
