Physiological Psychology: Jimmie G. Case Study
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Questions and Answers

How does neuroplasticity relate to the field of physiological psychology, and why is it important for understanding behavior?

Neuroplasticity demonstrates the brain's adaptability, which is key to understanding how experiences shape neural mechanisms underlying behavior, a core focus of physiological psychology. This helps explain individual differences in response to stimuli.

If you are interested in understanding the role of neurotransmitters like dopamine in motor control, which sub-field of biopsychology would be most relevant to your research, and why?

Neurochemistry, because it focuses on the study of the chemical compounds that modulate the nervous system, including neurotransmitters like dopamine and their specific roles in neural functions such as motor control.

A researcher is studying how specific brain lesions affect spatial navigation in rats. What are the two sub-fields of biopsychology that might be used to accomplish this?

Neuroanatomy, to identify the location and extent of brain structures affected by the lesions, and Neurophysiology to assess the resulting changes or disruptions in normal brain function related to spatial navigation.

How is the empirical approach utilized in physiological psychology, and why is it important for studying the brain and human behavior?

<p>The empirical approach involves relying on observation and experimentation to gather data. It's crucial for studying the brain because it allows for testable, evidence-based conclusions about how neural mechanisms influence human behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the case of Jimmie G., how does his condition highlight the importance of understanding the relationship between brain function and psychological experience from a physiological psychology perspective?

<p>Jimmie G.'s case demonstrates how specific neural damage can profoundly impact memory and awareness, emphasizing the link between physical brain structures and subjective psychological states, such as the experience of time or self-recognition. This highlights the physiological basis of cognitive functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do neurons act as 'information messengers' within the nervous system?

<p>Neurons use electrical impulses and chemical signals to transmit information throughout the body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the function of dendrites in a neuron, and explain why this function is essential for neural communication.

<p>Dendrites receive input from other neurons, which is essential as it's the first step in a neuron receiving information from others to process and transmit.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the axon play in neuronal communication, and how does its structure support this function?

<p>The axon transmits electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body to other neurons, and its length and myelin sheath (if present) facilitate rapid and efficient signal transmission.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the function of synaptic gaps and terminal buttons in neuronal transmission.

<p>Terminal buttons at the end of the axon send signals across synaptic gaps (spaces between neurons) to transmit information to other neurons.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would a damaged myelin sheath affect the transmission of electrical impulses along an axon, and what are the potential consequences?

<p>Damaged myelin sheath would slow down or disrupt the transmission of electrical impulses, potentially leading to neurological problems and impaired function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the primary function of the neuron's nucleus, and explain in what way this function is indispensable for the neuron's vitality.

<p>The nucleus contains genetic information and is the site of neuronal protein synthesis, indispensable for maintaining the neuron's structure and function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the principal role of the cell membrane in a neuron, and in what way does this contribute to the neuron's ability to function?

<p>The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell, which is essential for maintaining the neuron's internal environment and transmitting signals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do mitochondria support the function of a neuron, and why might a neuron require a relatively large number of these organelles?

<p>Mitochondria provide energy (ATP) to neurons, which require a lot of energy to maintain their membrane potential, transmit signals, and other cellular processes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the fundamental difference between biological regression and psychological regression, providing a concise example for each.

<p>Biological regression involves a physical trauma leading to a regression in thinking. Psychological regression involves reverting to childish habits as a result of psychological trauma.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe how Korsakoff's syndrome affects memory and what is the most common cause of this condition?

<p>Korsakoff's syndrome impairs short-term memory but long-term memories remain intact. It is commonly caused by chronic alcoholism.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do clinical implications and evolutionary perspectives serve as themes in biopsychology research, and why are each important?

<p>Clinical implications focus on how research can improve healthcare and medical practices. Evolutionary perspectives help understand behavior through the lens of evolutionary biology. Both are important as clinical aspects improve treatments and evolutionary ones give adaptive context.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Briefly describe the focus of physiological psychology and provide an example of a research question within this area.

<p>Physiological psychology studies the neural mechanisms of behavior through direct manipulation of the brain. An example research question is: <code>How does stimulating a specific region of the hypothalamus affect aggression levels in rats?</code></p> Signup and view all the answers

How does psychopharmacology contribute to our understanding of the nervous system, and what is its primary method of investigation?

<p>Psychopharmacology examines how drugs affect neural activity and behavior. Its primary method involves manipulating brain function with chemical compounds to observe behavioral changes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the main goal of neuropsychology, and what patient population are they most likely to study?

<p>Neuropsychology studies the psychological effects of brain damage in humans. They typically study patients with lesions or other forms of brain injury.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the primary focus of psychophysiology, and provide an example of a research method they might use.

<p>Psychophysiology studies the relationship between physiological activity and psychological processes. An example of a research method they might use is measuring heart rate variability in response to different emotional stimuli.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Cognitive neuroscience integrates methodologies from multiple fields. Which one's and what makes it unique from others?

<p>Cognitive neuroscience integrates methodologies from neuroscience, psychology, and computer science to study the neural bases of cognition. It uniquely investigates higher intellectual functions with neuroimaging and computational modeling</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main approach used in comparative psychology, and what are its key goals?

<p>Comparative psychology compares the behavior of different species. Its key goals are to understand the evolution, genetics, and adaptiveness of behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main divisions of the nervous system, and what is the primary function of each?

<p>The two main divisions are the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The CNS integrates information and coordinates activity, while the PNS connects the CNS to the limbs and organs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the two components of the peripheral nervous system and their distinct functions.

<p>The somatic nervous system interacts with the external environment, controlling voluntary muscles. The autonomic nervous system regulates the body's internal environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Distinguish between afferent and efferent nerves in terms of their function and direction of signal transmission.

<p>Afferent nerves carry sensory signals from the senses to the CNS. Efferent nerves carry signals from the CNS to the muscles and glands.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and how they contribute to maintaining homeostasis?

<p>The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses. The parasympathetic nervous system promotes 'rest and digest' functions. They maintain homeostasis by balancing opposing physiological states.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Imagine you encounter a bear in the woods. Describe how the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems would respond in this situation?

<p>The sympathetic nervous system will trigger the release of stress hormones, increase heart rate, dilate pupils, and redirect blood flow to muscles, preparing for 'fight or flight'. Afterward, the parasympathetic nervous system will gradually slow heart rate, constrict pupils, and promote digestion to restore a state of calm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the meninges, and what are the three layers that comprise it?

<p>The meninges protect the brain and spinal cord. The three layers are the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Physiological Psychology

A field studying neural mechanisms of perception, emotion, cognition, and behavior.

Neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to change and adapt throughout life.

Neuroanatomy

The study of the structure of the nervous system.

Neurochemistry

The study of compounds that affect the nervous system's function and structure.

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Neurophysiology

The study of how the nervous system functions.

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Neuron

Information messengers that transmit impulses and signals.

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Axon

Part of a neuron where electrical impulses travel away from the cell body.

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Dendrites

Branch-like structures that receive signals from other neurons.

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Terminal Buttons

Located at the end of neurons, responsible for sending signals to other neurons.

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Synapses

Gaps between adjacent neurons where signals are transmitted.

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Neuron Cell Body

Contains genetic information and maintains the neuron's structure.

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Myelin Sheath

Insulates axons to help transmit impulses quickly and efficiently.

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Mitochondria

Powerhouse of the neuron that provides energy and metabolites.

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Psychological Regression

A return to old habits or childish behaviors due to psychological trauma.

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Biological Regression

A physical trauma causing a person to feel or act younger than their age.

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Korsakoff Syndrome

Condition with long-term memories intact but absence of short-term memory, often due to alcoholism.

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Psychopharmacology

Manipulation of neural activity and behavior through drugs.

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Neuropsychology

Study of how brain damage affects psychological functions.

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Cognitive Neuroscience

Study of neural bases supporting cognition and higher thought processes.

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Comparative Psychology

Comparison of behaviors across species to understand evolution and adaptiveness.

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Afferent Nerves

Nerves carrying sensory signals from the body to the CNS.

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Efferent Nerves

Nerves carrying signals away from the CNS to elicit a response.

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Central Nervous System (CNS)

Part of the nervous system within the skull and spine that processes information.

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Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Nervous system division outside the skull and spine that connects CNS to limbs/organs.

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Somatic Nervous System

Part of the PNS that controls voluntary muscular systems and interacts with the environment.

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Autonomic Nervous System

Part of the PNS that regulates the internal environment of the body.

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Sympathetic Nerves

Type of efferent nerves in the autonomic system that prepare the body for a 'fight or flight' response.

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Study Notes

Physiological Psychology

  • Physiological Psychology is a subdivision of neuroscience, studying neural mechanisms of perception, affect, cognition, and behavior.
  • It uses an empirical and practical approach, focusing on the brain and human behavior, often referred to as psychobiology, behavioral biology, or behavioral neuroscience.

Case Study of Jimmie G.

  • Psychological regression is a psychological trauma that causes individuals to revert back to former, child-like behaviors or thoughts.
  • Biological regression is a physical trauma that can cause someone to revert into a younger mindset, exhibiting past behaviors.
  • Korsakoff syndrome is a condition marked by long-term memory retention but severely impaired short-term memory, often caused by alcoholism.

Three Themes

  • Clinical Implications: effects on healthcare, treatments, and medical practices.
  • Evolutionary Perspectives: studying behavior through an evolutionary lens, looking at how behavior, thought, and emotions evolved.

Neuroplasticity

  • The brain's ability to alter and adapt throughout its entire life.

Sub-fields of Biopsychology

  • Neuroanatomy: study of the nervous system's structure.
  • Neurochemistry: investigation of the components, structures, and functions of compounds that modulate the nervous system.
  • Neurophysiology: study of the nervous system's functions, not the structure.
  • Neuropharmacology: the use and study of drugs influencing and affecting the nervous system.
  • Neuroendocrinology: investigating how the nervous system manages hormone secretion.
  • Neuropathology: study of neurological diseases and injuries.

Major Divisions of Biopsychology

  • Physiological Psychology: how neural mechanisms affect behavior through direct brain manipulation (no drug interference).
  • Psychopharmacology: manipulation of neural activity by the use of drugs.
  • Neuropsychology: investigating psychological effects of brain damage in humans.
  • Psychophysiology: studying the relationship between physiological activity and psychological processes.

Anatomy of the Nervous System

  • Central Nervous System (CNS): The brain and spinal cord, where information is integrated and processed, influencing bodily functions.
  • Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): The network of nerves outside the CNS, connecting the CNS to the body's limbs and organs.
  • Afferent Nerves: carry sensory signals to the CNS.
  • Efferent Nerves: carry signals from the CNS to the body, stimulating actions/responses.
  • Somatic Nervous System: controls voluntary movement and reflexive actions.
  • Autonomic Nervous System: controls involuntary functions like digestion and heartbeat.

Layers of the Skull

  • Skin, Skull, Dura mater (outer layer), Arachnoid membrane (middle layer), subarachnoid space (fluid-filled space), Blood-brain barrier, Pia mater.

Meninges

  • Membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, acting as shock absorbers.

Cerebrospinal Fluid

  • Fills spaces around the brain and spinal cord, cushioning the brain, providing nutrients, and reducing impact.

Blood-Brain Barrier

  • A protective barrier, composed of tightly-packed tissues and blood vessels, that guards the brain against harmful chemicals.

Neurons (Information Messengers)

  • Dendrites: receive signals from other neurons.
  • Cell Membrane: regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
  • Axon: Conduit that carries the electrical signal away from the cell body.
  • Terminal Buttons: structures at the end of axons that release neurotransmitters.
  • Synapses: spaces between neurons where signals are passed.

Internal Parts of a Neuron

  • Nucleus: Contains genetic material and controls function.
  • Mitochondria: Produce energy for the cell.
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum: Synthesizes proteins.

Glial Cells

  • Cells in the nervous system supporting neurons, protecting them and supplying nutrients, oxygen, and insulation.
  • Types include Astrocytes, Oligodendrocytes, Microglia.

Five Major Divisions of the Brain

  • Myelencephalon (Medulla): responsible for vital functions like heartbeat and respiration.
  • Metencephalon (Pons and Cerebellum): associated with unconscious processes, sleep-wake cycles, and breathing.
  • Mesencephalon (Midbrain): key for eye movements, approach/avoidance behaviors.
  • Diencephalon (Thalamus, Hypothalamus): Primary relay and processing center for sensory information and autonomic control.
  • Telencephalon (Cerebral Cortex): Meditates complex functions: voluntary movement, sensory interpretation, cognitive processes.

Cerebral Cortex

  • Divided into four lobes: frontal, parietal, occipital, and temporal. Each lobe performs specific functions related to sensory processing, motor control, cognition.

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Explore physiological psychology, a neuroscience subdivision studying neural mechanisms of perception, affect, cognition, and behavior. Examine psychological and biological regression, and Korsakoff syndrome, with clinical and evolutionary themes.

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