Biological Approach - Key Terms Flashcards
(16 cards)
Agonist
A chemical that amplifies the effect of a neurotransmitter by binding to the receptor sites of that neurotransmitter and activating them
Neural Network
A neural network is a series of connected neurons that allows the processing and transmitting of information. Specific networks are responsible for specific tasks.
Synapse
The small space between two connected neurons
Inhibitory Neurotransmitters
An inhibitory neurotransmitter binds to receptor sites and reduces the chances of the post-synaptic neuron firing
Serotonin
A neurotransmitter that helps to form neural networks
Localisation of brain function
a term used to describe how different parts of the brain perform different functions
Neurons
Cells that perform the function of communication in the body
Gene
A sequence of DNA
Twin and Kinship Studies
The use of identical (monozygotic) and fraternal (dizygotic) twins in studies.
Hormone
A chemical messenger that is transported through the bloodstream. These messengers affect physiological processes and behaviour.
Antagonist
A chemical that reduces the effect of a neurotransmitter by binding to and blocking the receptor sites of that neurotransmitter
Excitatory Neurotransmitters
Binds to receptor sites and increases the chances of the post-synaptic neuron firing
Evolutionary explanation of behaviour
Explaining how a behaviour helps an individual survive, procreate and/or produce healthy offspring
Neuroplasticity
The brain’s ability to change as a result of experience
Neural Network
A series of connected neurons that allows the processing and transmitting of information
Neural Pruning
This happens when synaptic connections in a neural network are lost because they are not used
