The Biological Bases of Behavior

Question 1

What is the nature versus nurture controversy?

Answer 1

It debates whether genetics (nature) or environment (nurture) primarily shape behavior and traits.

Question 2

What is Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection and its relevance to psychology?

Answer 2

Natural selection explains how traits that increase survival and reproduction are passed on. Psychology uses it to understand behavior as adaptive.

Question 3

Give an example of “Genes do not code for destinies; they code for potential.”

Answer 3

A child may inherit a gene for height but nutrition and health affect actual growth; genes set possibilities, environment shapes outcomes.

Question 4

What methods explore nervous system functions?

Answer 4

Techniques include brain imaging (MRI, PET), electrophysiology (EEG), lesion studies, and animal experiments.

Question 5

What are the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems?

Answer 5

Central NS: Brain and spinal cord; processes info.

Peripheral NS: Connects CNS to limbs/organs.

Autonomic NS: Controls involuntary functions (heartbeat, digestion).`

Question 6

What are major brain structures and their functions?

Answer 6

Cerebrum: Thinking, perception.

Cerebellum: Coordination, balance.

Brainstem: Basic life functions (breathing, heartbeat).

Limbic system: Emotion, memory.

Question 7

What are the endocrine glands’ functions and neurotransmitters’ roles?

Answer 7

Glands (like pituitary, adrenal) release hormones regulating growth, stress, metabolism. Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals transmitting signals between neurons, affecting mood and behavior.