Chapter 3 Flashcards
What is the focus of biopsychology?
Understanding the relationship between biological processes and psychological traits
It examines how genetics and physiology influence behaviors and mental processes.
What does the term ‘Nature and Nurture’ refer to?
The interplay between genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) in shaping behavior and traits.
Why is studying genetics important in psychology?
To understand biological factors that contribute to observable behaviors and psychological disorders.
What is Sickle Cell Anemia?
A genetic condition causing red blood cells to adopt a crescent shape, affecting their function.
How does the sickle cell gene relate to malaria?
Carriers of the sickle cell gene have immunity to malaria due to alterations in blood chemistry.
What is Evolution by Natural Selection?
The process where organisms best suited to their environment survive and reproduce.
Define genetic variation.
Differences in individuals’ genetic makeup that contribute to environmental adaptation.
What is a gamete cell?
Reproductive cells (sperm and egg) that contain 23 chromosomes.
Differentiate between phenotype and genotype.
Phenotype refers to physical characteristics; genotype refers to genetic makeup.
What is a dominant allele?
An allele that will express its phenotype even if only one copy is present.
Define homozygous.
An individual with two copies of the same allele.
What is a recessive allele?
An allele that expresses its phenotype only if the individual is homozygous for that allele.
What does polygenic mean?
Traits controlled by more than one gene, such as height and skin color.
What is gene-environment interaction?
The interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental influences on traits.
What is epigenetics?
The study of how the same genotype can lead to different phenotypes.
Define glial cells.
Cells that provide structure and support for neurons in the nervous system.
What is the function of neurons?
They are the central building block of the nervous system, responsible for processing information.
What is the role of the myelin sheath?
To insulate the axon and increase the speed of signal transmission.
What is action potential?
The electrical signal that travels down the axon to the terminal buttons.
What is neurotransmitter reuptake?
The process where excess neurotransmitters are absorbed back into the neuron.
Differentiate between agonists and antagonists.
Agonists mimic neurotransmitters; antagonists block their effects.
What are the two major areas of the nervous system?
- Central nervous system
- Peripheral nervous system
What does the autonomic nervous system control?
Functions of organs and glands beyond conscious control.
What is the primary function of the spinal cord?
To distribute information to and from the brain.
