Module 9 Vocab Flashcards
The scientific study of the links between biological (genetics, neural, hormonal) and psychological processes
Biological Psychology
Nerve cell
Neuron
Parts of a neuron
Dendrite > Cell body (soma) > Axon > Axon terminals
Parts of a neuron: Dendrite
receives messages
Parts of a neuron: Axon
Sends messages
Parts of a neuron: Myelin Sheath (surrounds axon)
Speeds up messages
Neural impulses
Go
More excitatory + than inhibitory -
Action Potential
Stop
More inhibitory - than excitatory +
Resting potential
Condition where myelin sheath degenerates
Multiple Sclerosis
Period of inactivity after neuron is fired
Refractory period
Cells that support and protect neurons
Play a role in learning, thinking, memory
Glial cell
Level of stimulation required to trigger a neural impulse
Threshold
A neuron either fires or it doesn’t
All of None Response
Junction between axon terminals of one cell and dendrites of another
Synapse
Tiny gap between axon terminals and receiving dendrites
Synaptic gap (cleft)
Chemical messages that cross the synaptic gap
Neurotransmitters
Excess neurotransmitters are re-absorbed by sending neuron
Reuptake
Acetylcholine (ACh)
Alzheimer’s occurs when ACh producing neurons degenerate
Enables muscle action, learning, and memory
Dopamine
Too much = schizophrenia
Too little = tremors/less mobility In Parkinson’s
Influences movement, attention, emotion
Serotonin
Too little = depression
Affects mood, hunger, sleep, arousal
Norepinephrine
Too little = depressed mood
Helps control alertness and arousal
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABBA)
Too little = seizures, tremors, insomnia
Major inhibitory neurotransmitter
Glutamate
Too much = migraines, seizures
Major excitatory neurotransmitter (involved in memory)
Endorphins
Influences perception of pain or pleasure
Type of drug that mimics neurotransmitters (more enhanced version)
Agonist
Type of drug that fights neurotransmitters (stops its effect)
Antagonist
