Psychology
Biological approach to understanding behaviour
The brain and behaviour
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The brain and behaviour
Understanding the Biological Approach to Behaviour through the Brain
The Brain's Structure
- The brain is divided into distinct regions, each playing a key role in our behaviour.
- The frontal lobe is associated with problem solving, reasoning, decision making, and planning.
- The parietal lobe controls spatial awareness, touch sensation, and object manipulation.
- Emotions, memory processing, and the flight or fight response are managed by the limbic system, which includes the amygdala and hippocampus.
- The occipital lobe is primarily responsible for vision and visual perception.
- The temporal lobe handles auditory processing and is also crucial for memory formation.
Neurotransmitters and Behaviour
- Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals through neurons. Different neurotransmitters have different effects on behaviour and mood.
- For instance, the neurotransmitter dopamine is associated with reward and pleasure, and its abnormal levels are linked with conditions like Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia.
- Serotonin regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. Low levels of serotonin are linked with depressive disorders.
- Acetylcholine plays crucial roles in memory and learning. Reduced levels of this neurotransmitter are found in Alzheimer's disease patients.
Brain Plasticity
- Neuroplasticity or brain plasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.
- Neuroplasticity allows neurons to compensate for injury or disease and to adjust their activities in response to new situations or changes in the environment.
- Increased activity or stimulation can cause the brain to strengthen its connections, while decreased activity can cause the connections to weaken or disappear - a phenomenon known as use-dependent plasticity.
- Neurogenesis, the process of producing new neurons in the brain, also contributes to the brain's plasticity.
Hormones and Behaviour
- Hormones are chemical messengers released by glands in the body, having significant effects on behaviour and emotions.
- Cortisol, the stress hormone, can affect memory, immune function, and the likelihood of developing mental illnesses.
- Oxytocin, often referred to as the love hormone, promotes bonding and trust.
Genetics and Behaviour
- Behavioural genetics studies the genetic and environmental influences on behaviour.
- Twin studies often used to estimate the heritability of a trait or behaviour. Identical twins share 100% of their genes, making them ideal for such research.
- Adoption studies are also used to determine the influence of genetics versus environment on the development of certain behaviours or psychological traits.