Chapter 2: The Biology of Mind Flashcards
biopsychology
everything psychological is simultaneously biological
Neurons
basic units of the brain and the rest of the nervous system
dendrites
branching extensions at the cell body; receive messages from other neurons
axon
carries messages away from the cell body
neurotransmitters
chemicals that alter activity in neurons; brain chemicals
synapses
microscopic gap between two neurons over which messages pass
receptor site
areas on the surface of neurons and other cells that are sensitive to neurotransmitters
Acetylcholine (ACh)
neurotransmitter which controls voluntary movement of the muscles
The Black Widow Spider, Botox injections
Dopamine
neurotransmitter which affects brain processes that control bodily movement and reward centers
too much dopamine
linked with schizophrenia
too little dopamine
linked with Parkinson’s
Serotonin
neurotransmitter involved with mood, appetite, and sleep induction
low levels of serotonin
depression, anorexia nervosa, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder (DABA)
Nerves
large bundles of axons and dendrites
Myelin
fatty layer of tissue that coats axons
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
occurs when myelin layer is destroyed; numbness, weakness, and paralysis occur
Nervous system
consists of all the nerve cells; body’s speedy, electrochemical communication system
Central Nervous system (CNS)
the brain and spinal cord
Peripheral Nervous system (PNS)
the sensory and motor neurons that connect to the central nervous system (CNS) to the rest of the body
Somatic System (PNS)
a voluntary system (under conscious control) that makes contact with the outside environment
Autonomic System (PNS)
involved in the involuntary control of our internal organs
(ex: heartbeat,digestions, glandular activity); dual system consisting of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
Sympathetic Nervous System (AS)
GO!
arouses the body, mobilizing the energy in stressful situations; kick-starts defensive action (fight-or-flight)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (AS)
STOP!
calms the body, conserving its energy; brings about homeostasis
brain and neural networks (CNS)
interconnected neurons from the networks in the brain (complex and modify with growth and experience)