Introduction to Biological Psychology

Catalog description

Three lecture. A survey course exploring the biological and biochemical correlates of behavior and mental processes; focusing on relationships between the nervous system and behavior, and providing a foundation in nervous system structure and function. Students will be able to: describe the scientific method and the research methodologies used in the field of biopsychology; discuss the neural mechanisms of behavior including the role evolution, heredity, and the adaptiveness of behavioral processes; identify the major structures of the nervous system (central and peripheral) according to location and associated higher psychological functions; describe the role of postsynaptic potentials (excitatory and inhibitory), synaptic transmission, the primary neurotransmitters, and neuro-receptors in producing and regulating behavior; discuss the nature of sensation and perception as it applies to the five senses; describe the cognitive processes related to learning and memory; explain the interactions between hormones and behavior, including sex differences in brain morphology and sexuality. Prerequisite(s): PSY 101