Biopsychology Final Exam Review

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Questions and Answers

Which disorders are commonly associated with a smaller hippocampus?

Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder

Depression and PTSD (correct)

Autism and ADHD

Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease (correct)

What role does the amygdala play in emotional memories?

It enhances the storage of emotional memories. (correct)

It is solely responsible for non-emotional memories.

It only recognizes negative emotions.

It suppresses all emotional memories.

What factors must be considered to define language as a dividing line between humans and other animals?

The use of symbols and syntax. (correct)

The ability to learn multiple languages.

The ability to speak in complex sentences.

The capacity for human-like reasoning.

What does displacement in language refer to?

The ability to discuss past or future events. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the weaknesses of studies showing animals can comprehend language?

Limited sample sizes of tested animals. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concept of the James-Lange Theory of emotion?

Emotions are physiological responses to environments. Signup and view all the answers

According to the Schachter-Singer Theory, what are the two key components that lead to emotions?

Physical reactions and our appraisals. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key strength of using physiological measures to infer emotions?

They capture immediate biological reactions. Signup and view all the answers

Which theory states that emotions and behaviors occur simultaneously?

Cannon-Bard Theory Signup and view all the answers

Why do different species exhibit varying levels of emotions?

Due to differences in brain structures. Signup and view all the answers

Which option describes why self-reports of emotions can produce problems?

They lack objective verification methods. Signup and view all the answers

How does physiology demonstrate unique emotional responses?

Certain physical responses align with specific emotions. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to say that cognition and emotion are intertwined?

Cognitive processes can influence emotional responses. Signup and view all the answers

What emotions are primarily associated with left hemisphere functioning?

Joy and laughter Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with aggression and depression?

Serotonin Signup and view all the answers

What role does estrogen play in influencing emotions?

Elevates mood and trust Signup and view all the answers

What is oxytocin commonly referred to as?

Love hormone Signup and view all the answers

Which hemisphere of the brain is known as the 'emotional hemisphere'?

Right hemisphere Signup and view all the answers

What behavior is typically associated with the neurotransmitter dopamine?

Aggression Signup and view all the answers

What chemical is researched in animals for its effect on maternal behavior?

Oxytocin Signup and view all the answers

Which type of memory is primarily stored in the cerebellum?

Procedural memory Signup and view all the answers

Why is the limbic system tightly connected to the cortex?

The limbic system is tightly connected to the cortex to facilitate emotional processing and decision-making. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three gender differences in emotional processing discussed in class?

Girls are better at reading faces, get upset at emotionless faces, and can hear emotions in voices better than boys except for anger. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Wada test measure?

The Wada test measures the lateralization of brain functions, including emotions. Signup and view all the answers

What role does serotonin play in emotions, and how is it related to aggression and depression?

Serotonin is associated with regulating mood, where low levels can lead to aggression and depression. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does oxytocin have on human behavior and emotions?

Oxytocin promotes trust and emotional bonding, influencing how we perceive others. Signup and view all the answers

How is memory processed differently in the brain, and which is simpler: learning or memory?

Learning involves forming new connections in the brain, while memory is a stored representation of those connections; learning is generally considered the simpler process. Signup and view all the answers

What are some cognitive abilities observed across species, and which unique abilities are specifically tied to the use of language?

Some cognitive abilities observed across species include problem-solving and tool use, while unique abilities tied to language include complex symbolic thought and advanced communication. Signup and view all the answers

What type of memory is primarily stored in the cerebellum, and what is its function?

The cerebellum primarily stores procedural memory, which involves skills and tasks. Signup and view all the answers

How does physical intimacy relate to trust and emotional bonds according to oxytocin research?

Physical intimacy increases oxytocin levels, enhancing feelings of trust and emotional connection. Signup and view all the answers

How does emotional memory storage differ from non-emotional memory storage, and what are the implications of this difference?

Emotional memories are stored more powerfully due to their significance, which can lead to heightened recall but also to persistent emotional distress or trauma. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how lateralization affects language ability in the human brain.

Lateralization refers to the specialization of brain hemispheres, where the left hemisphere is primarily responsible for language production and comprehension. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between understanding and producing language, and which typically develops first?

Understanding language typically develops before the ability to produce it, as children often comprehend words and sentence structures prior to speaking them. Signup and view all the answers

Identify some gender differences in language use and consider how context might affect these differences.

Research indicates that women often use language to build connections, while men may use it more for asserting dominance; context can influence this by altering communication norms. Signup and view all the answers

What are the strengths and weaknesses of measuring emotions through behavior and expressions?

Strengths include observable and measurable reactions; weaknesses involve subjectivity and potential for misinterpretation. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Schachter-Singer Theory explain the formation of emotions?

It posits that emotions arise from the combination of physical reactions and cognitive appraisals. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the James-Lange and Canon-Bard theories of emotion?

The James-Lange Theory suggests emotions result from physiological responses, while the Canon-Bard Theory states they occur simultaneously. Signup and view all the answers

Why is there a debate about whether emotions are behaviors or feelings?

The debate arises because behaviors can be observable, while feelings are subjective internal experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What role does physiology play in revealing emotions?

Physiology provides measurable data on bodily responses that correlate with specific emotional states. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence supports the idea that facial expressions are innate?

Cross-cultural studies show that people universally recognize certain facial expressions, suggesting they are biologically based. Signup and view all the answers

How do lie detectors attempt to measure deception?

Lie detectors measure physiological responses such as heart rate and sweat production, which may indicate stress or anxiety. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for cognition and emotion to be intertwined?

It means that cognitive processes, such as thoughts and judgments, can significantly influence emotional responses. Signup and view all the answers

What cognitive abilities are commonly shared across species, and how do they differ from unique human abilities tied to language use?

Common cognitive abilities include problem-solving and social learning, while unique human abilities tied to language use include complex syntax and abstract symbolism. Signup and view all the answers

Describe how gender differences in language use might be influenced by context.

Context can influence gender differences in language use by affecting the style of communication, with men often using more assertive language in competitive settings and women using more collaborative language in social contexts. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the term 'displacement' in language, and why is it significant?

Displacement refers to the ability to communicate about objects or events that are not present, allowing for discussions of past or future occurrences, which is significant as it illustrates a higher cognitive function in humans. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the arguments for and against considering humans as the 'smartest' species based on cognitive abilities?

Arguments for humans being the smartest species include our complex language and problem-solving skills, while arguments against this position point out that many animals exhibit advanced cognition in their own environments, such as tool use and social structures. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways does lateralization in the brain relate to language ability?

Lateralization refers to the specialization of the brain's hemispheres, with the left hemisphere primarily responsible for language processing, influencing language production and comprehension abilities. Signup and view all the answers

What determines the levels of leptin in a person's body?

Levels of leptin are primarily determined by the amount of body fat a person has. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three methods used to infer emotions?

The three methods are physiology, behavior and expressions, and reported internal experience. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how face patterns aid in recognizing corresponding emotions.

Making a facial pattern can help activate the appropriate emotional response, making it easier to identify the emotion. Signup and view all the answers

How is the James-Lange Theory different from the Canon-Bard Theory?

James-Lange Theory posits that emotions result from physiological reactions, while Canon-Bard Theory suggests emotions and physiological responses occur simultaneously. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between arousal and thoughts according to contemporary theories?

Arousal and thoughts are not truly distinct; they interact and influence each other in emotional experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What are the two factors outlined in the Schachter-Singer Theory that lead to emotions?

The two factors are physical reactions and the appraisals of those reactions. Signup and view all the answers

What implications does the intertwined nature of cognition and emotion have for emotional processing?

The intertwined nature suggests that emotions can influence cognitive processes and vice versa, affecting decision-making and behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence supports the notion that facial expressions are innate?

Evidence includes cross-cultural studies showing consistency in facial expressions associated with specific emotions, regardless of cultural background. Signup and view all the answers

What role do serotonin and dopamine play in emotions?

Serotonin is associated with aggression and depression, while dopamine is linked with positive emotions and motivation. Signup and view all the answers

What emotions are typically associated with right hemisphere functioning?

The right hemisphere is primarily associated with negative emotions such as sadness and fear. Signup and view all the answers

How does physical intimacy relate to trust according to research on oxytocin?

Physical intimacy can increase trust because oxytocin is released, promoting feelings of bonding and security. Signup and view all the answers

Describe how learning forms new connections in the brain.

Learning leads to the formation of new synaptic connections, enabling the brain to adapt and process new information. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the hippocampus in memory?

The hippocampus is essential for the formation and retrieval of long-term memories. Signup and view all the answers

How do estrogen and testosterone influence emotions?

Estrogen generally promotes social bonding and mood regulation, while testosterone can increase aggression and assertiveness. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the limbic system important for emotional processing in humans?

The limbic system is crucial for processing emotions and is intricately linked with the cortex for higher cognitive functions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biopsychology Review for Final Exam - Cumulative Portion

The final exam covers all previous material, emphasizing connections between concepts.
The study should focus on how the understanding of single cells (neurons), structures (hippocampus), systems (limbic system), and behavior are interconnected and influence each other bidirectionally.

Fat Cells & Leptin

Leptin is a hormone, and its levels are important for regulating the body's energy balance and influencing other physiological processes.
Factors determining leptin levels are not explicitly stated in this document.

Emotions

The debate on whether emotions are behaviors or feelings is ongoing, with both arguments having merit.
Emotions are inferred using three primary methods:
Physiology (Strengths: objective data; weaknesses: can't always pinpoint specific emotions).
Behavior/expressions (strengths: often readily observable; weaknesses: cultural variation affects interpretation).
Reported internal experience (strengths: direct self-report; weaknesses: subjectivity and potential biases).
Physiological responses to emotions are not always unique to each emotion.
Lie detectors utilize physiological measures but are not foolproof.
Facial expressions and patterns are sometimes thought to be innate, though cultural factors may influence interpretation.
Self-reporting emotions has limitations due to subjectivity.

History of Emotion Study

The James-Lange theory posits that emotions result from physiological reactions preceding the feeling of the emotion.
The Cannon-Bard theory suggests that emotions and physiological responses occur simultaneously.
The Schachter-Singer theory proposes that emotions arise from the combination of physiological arousal and cognitive appraisal of the situation.
Current theory of emotion recognizes both physiological and cognitive factors and their interactions.
Different species may have varying levels of emotional expression due to their nervous system.
Cognitive and emotional factors are intertwined.
The limbic system is tightly connected to the cortex for emotional regulation.

Gender and Emotions

Some gender differences in emotional expression have been identified, such as differences in facial expression recognition, and emotional cues from voices.

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Description

Prepare for your cumulative final exam in Biopsychology by reviewing the interconnectedness of neurons, the hippocampus, the limbic system, and behavior. Additionally, explore the role of leptin in energy regulation and the ongoing debate over the nature of emotions. This comprehensive review will help solidify your understanding of these critical topics.