Unit 1 Summary: AP Psychology - Biological Basis of Behavior

Introduction

• Review of key concepts for AP Psychology Unit 1
• Focus on biological basis of behavior
• Concepts include nature vs. nurture, nervous system, neurons, brain structure, sleep, and sensory systems
• Active engagement encouraged for better learning

Nature vs. Nurture

• Heredity (nature): Passing of physical and mental traits
• Environmental factors (nurture): Family life, social groups, education, societal influences
• Modern perspective: Nature AND nurture
• Evolutionary approach: Based on Darwin's theory of evolution
• Epigenetics: Study of how environment and behavior affect genes; explains differences in identical twins
• Plasticity: Brain's ability to change and adapt

Nervous System

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord
• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves connecting CNS to body
  • Afferent neurons: Sensory neurons; approach the brain
  • Efferent neurons: Motor neurons; exit the brain
• Somatic Nervous System: Voluntary control of muscles and senses
• Autonomic Nervous System: Involuntary functions
  • Sympathetic Division: Fight or flight response
  • Parasympathetic Division: Rest and digest

Neurons and Neural Transmission

• Types of Neural Cells:
  • Glial cells: Support neurons, don't process information
  • Neurons: Functional unit, communicate via electrical impulses and chemical signals
• Reflex Arc: Pathway involving sensory neurons, interneurons, and motor neurons
• Neural Transmission:
  • Action potentials, depolarization, repolarization
  • Synapse: Chemical and electrical synapses, neurotransmitter roles
  • Disorders: Multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis

Neurotransmitters

• Acetylcholine: Muscle action, learning, memory
• Dopamine: Movement, learning, attention, emotions
• Serotonin: Hunger, sleep, mood
• Endorphins: Pain control
• Epinephrine/Norepinephrine: Fight or flight
• Glutamate: Memory, learning
• GABA: Sleep, movement control

Brain Structure

• Major Regions:
  • Hindbrain, Midbrain, Forebrain
• Forebrain Structures:
  • Cerebrum: Two hemispheres, complex thoughts
  • Limbic System: Emotions, memory
  • Thalamus: Sensory relay station
  • Hypothalamus: Homeostasis, drives
• Brain Lateralization: Specialized functions of hemispheres

Sleep and Consciousness

• Consciousness Types:
  • Wakefulness, Sleep
• Circadian Rhythms: 24-hour biological clock
• Sleep Stages: Non-REM and REM sleep
• Theories of Dreams: Activation-synthesis, Consolidation, Restoration
• Sleep Disorders: Insomnia, Sleep apnea, REM sleep behavior disorder, Narcolepsy

Sensation

• Visual System: Eye structure and function
• Hearing: Sound waves, pitch, auditory theories, hearing loss
• Chemical Systems: Smell and taste
  • Interaction between taste and smell
• Touch and Pain: Skin senses, gate control theory
• Balance and Movement:
  • Vestibular sense and kinesthesis

Conclusion

• Emphasis on the complexity and adaptability of the brain
• Encouragement to use study guides and resources to reinforce learning

Note: Additional resources and practice materials are available for deeper understanding and exam preparation.