PANTOMATH

Biological and Physiological Psychology

 This area focuses on the connection between biology and behavior, exploring how the brain, nervous system, hormones, and genetics influence mental processes and actions. Here's a brief overview:

1. Brain Structure and Functions

• The brain is divided into key areas with specific functions:
  • Cerebrum: Responsible for higher cognitive functions like thinking, memory, and decision-making.
  • Limbic System: Controls emotions and memory (e.g., hippocampus, amygdala).
  • Brainstem and Cerebellum: Manage basic survival functions (e.g., breathing, balance).

2. Neurotransmitters and Their Role

• Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the brain.
• Examples:
  • Dopamine: Influences mood, reward, and movement.
  • Serotonin: Regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.
  • Acetylcholine: Affects learning and memory.
  • GABA: Reduces anxiety and calms the brain.

3. Hormones and the Endocrine System

• Hormones, released by glands, regulate behaviors and emotions:
  • Cortisol: Involved in stress responses.
  • Adrenaline: Triggers the fight-or-flight response.
  • Oxytocin: Promotes bonding and trust.

4. Genetics and Behavior

• Behavioral Genetics examines how genes and environment influence traits like intelligence, personality, and mental health.
• Studies include:
  • Twin Studies: Compare identical and fraternal twins to assess genetic impact.
  • Adoption Studies: Explore how environmental factors shape behavior.

5. Sensation and Perception

• Sensation: The process of detecting physical stimuli (e.g., light, sound).
• Perception: How the brain interprets sensory information to create meaningful experiences.
• Key processes:
  • Vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, and kinesthetic senses.

This topic bridges psychology with biology, helping us understand the physical basis of mental processes and behavior.