Definitions Flashcards
Localization of behavior
The concept that specific brain regions are responsible for particular functions.
Hippocampus
Part of brain located in temporal lobe. Associated with forming new memories and spatial navigation.
Temporal lobe
Area of brain located on side near the ears. Associated with several functions, including memory.
Behavior
Actions or responses of a person to stimuli in their environment.
MRI (process)
- machine with strong magnetic field
- protons in body have magnetic charges and align with field
- radiowave pulsed through patient forcing protons out of equillibrium
- energy released and speed of realignment measure
- faster realignment = brighter image
- can tell difference between different types of tissues
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Brain scanning technique that produces detailed structured images of the brain using magnetic fields and radio waves.
Neuroplasticity
The brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections in response to learning. Allows the brain to adapt to change and recover from damage.
Neurons
Nerve cell that transmits signals in the nervous system. Can be found in brain.
Memory
The process of encoding and retrieving information, allowing individuals to retain and use past experiences.
Neurotransmitter
A chemical messenger that transmits signals between neurons or from neurons to muscles.
Antagonist
A substance that blocks or reduces the effect of a neurotransmitter.
Agonist
A substance that enhances or mimics the effect of a neurotransmitter.
Androstatdienone
A potential pheromone found in male sweat and semen.
Estratetraenol
A potential pheromone found in female bodily fluids.
Pheromone
A pheromone is a chemical signal released by an organism that affects the behavior or physiology of others of the same species.
Hormone
A hormone is a chemical messenger secreted by endocrine glands that regulates physiological processes.
Testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone primarily produced in the testes and adrenal glands in males.
major histocompatibility complex (MHC)
Set of genes that code for cell surface proteins essential for immune system function. Each human has a unique MHC.
CortisolX
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates metabolism, immune response, and stress.
Major Depressive Disorder
Mood disorder: characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities. Affecting daily functioning.
Concordance rate
The probability that both members of a pair will share a particular trait or disorder.
Monozygotic and Dizygotic twins
MZ (monozygotic) twins are identical twins, originating from a single fertilized egg that splits, sharing 100% of their genes. DZ (dizygotic) twins are fraternal twins, originating from two separate eggs and sperm, sharing 50% of their genes.
Genetics
Traits or characteristics inherited from one’s parents.
Gene
A segment of DNA that carries the instructions for producing proteins, which determine an organism’s traits and functions.
5-HTT alleleX
Allele is a variant form of a gene that can exist in different versions. This one regulates serotonin in the brain.
Scopolamine
Antagonist to acetylcholine.
Acetylcholine
Neurotransmitter associated with memory and learning
Declarative memoryX
Involves the conscious recall of facts, events, and information.
fMRIX
fMRI (process)X
FBMX
States that emotionally significant events create vivid, long lasting memories.
AmygdalaX
Part of the brain involved in processing emotions, particularly fear and pleasure.
Serotonin
Neurotransmitter that regulates mood and emotion
tryptophan
Agonist to serotonin
Neural Pruning
The process where unused or unnecessary neural connections in the brain are eliminated to improve efficiency.
Research Method
A process, technique, or strategy used to collect data for analysis.
True experiment
Twin study
Relative influence of genetics and environment on traits or behaviors. Compare MZ and DZ twins.
Deception
Misleading participants in research to maintain the integrity of the study, while ensuring that it does not cause harm or violate their rights.
Informed consent
Process where participants agree to take part in the study after being fully informed about its purpose, procedures, and their rights.
Debriefing
Informing the participants of the details of the study after their participation, ensuring they leave without distress.
Lateralization of function
Lateralization in psychology refers to the specialization of brain functions in either the left or right hemisphere.
