PSY 255 - Introduction to Biological Psychology

1. describe the scientific method and the research methodologies used in the field of biopsychology;
2. discuss the neural mechanisms of behavior including the role evolution, heredity, and the adaptiveness of behavioral processes;
3. identify the major structures of the nervous system (central and peripheral) according to location and associated higher psychological functions;
4. describe the role of postsynaptic potentials (excitatory and inhibitory), synaptic transmission, the primary neurotransmitters, and neuro-receptors in producing and regulating behavior;
5. discuss the nature of sensation and perception as it applies to the five senses;
6. describe the cognitive processes related to learning and memory;
7. explain the interactions between hormones and behavior, including sex differences in brain morphology and sexuality.