The Brain: Neuroplasticity and Tools of Discovery

Question 1

Biological psychology

Answer 1

scientific study of the links between biological (genetic, neural, & hormonal) & psychological processes; some biological psychologists call themselves behavioral neuroscientists, neuropsychologists, behavior geneticists, physiological psychologists, or biopsychologists

Question 2

Biopsychosocial approach

Answer 2

integrated approach that incorporates biological, psychological, & social-cultural levels of
analysis

Question 3

Levels of analysis

Answer 3

differing complementary views, from biological to psychological to social-cultural, for
analyzing given information

Question 4

Neuroplasticity

Answer 4

brain’s ability to change, especially during childhood, by reorganizing
after damage or by building new pathways based on experience

Question 5

Lesion

Answer 5

tissue destruction; may occur naturally (from disease or trauma), during surgery, experimentally (using electrodes to destroy brain cells)

Question 6

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Answer 6

amplified recording of the waves of electrical activity sweeping across the brain’s surface (cerebral cortex); these waves are measured by electrodes placed on the scalp
■ Used in sleep studies, epilepsy
■ Can only measure brain waves on the very surface

Question 7

Functional MRI (fMRI)

Answer 7

technique for revealing blood flow &, therefore, brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans; fMRI scans show brain structure as well as function
■ Most detailed scan - can see what areas activate when recalling certain memories