lecture 3: biological bases of behaviour

Question 1

functions of limbic system

Answer 1

• hippocampus: new learning and formation of memories
• amygdala: process emotion, interpretations of non verbal emotional expression
• hypothalamus - endocrine function, regulate fear, metabolism, thirds, sexual drive, aggression
• thalamus - relay station that processes sensory information

Question 2

neurotransmitters associated with depression

Answer 2

• serotonin: sleep, mood, anger sex. behav., eating. lower in ppl with depression.
• dopamine: reward, pleasure, happiness. associated with substance abuse and psychosis
• norepinephrine: stress and anxiety
• acetylcholine: memory, learning recall
• glutamate - excitatory (role in bipolarism)
• GABA - inhibitory transmitter, reduces anxiety

Question 3

effect of neglect and toxic stress on brain development

Answer 3

• ongoing diminished levels of stimulation and enrichment can lead to developmental delays
• hippocampus function can be dampened within too much cortisol

Question 4

role of the HPA axis (stress response system)

Answer 4

1. stressor
2. hypothalamus sends signal to pituitary via CRH (corticotrophin releasing hormone)
3. pituitary sends adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) to adrenal gland
4. adrenal gland releases cortisol
5. hypothalamus responds to cortisol levels

• gets body ready for threats and stress

Question 5

what key neurotransmitters do in relation to mental health and substance abuse

Question 6

symptoms of depression

Answer 6

• dramatic weigth change
• irritablity
• hopelessness
• loss of pleasure in things they used to like
• lake of motivation
• irregular sleep
• lack of concentration

Question 7

hormones and depression

Answer 7

• cortisol tends to be higher
• eostrogen and testosterone are lower

Question 8

sequence of brain development

Answer 8

• primitive areas: sleep, limbic, emotion
• cortical areas: thinking and cognitive processes
• prefrontal cortex: executive functions

Question 9

stress

Answer 9

• positive or normal: shortlived, normal
• tolerableL serious illenss, scary accident, temporary separation, okay if support is available
• toxic stress: strong and frequent activation of body stress response system, chronic, uncontrollable, without support

Question 10

clinical context of toxic stress

Answer 10

• hyperactivity (not adhd)
• over-ractiosn to mild stressful situations
• withdrawn
• hyper vigilant
• learning difficulties