PSY/340 - Biological Foundations in Psychology
Course Description
This course is designed to expose you to the underlying physiological mechanisms of behavior. Physiological psychology is a complex but fascinating field of study. It explores the relationship between our biological systems and behavior. Structure and function of the nervous system from the neuron to the brain, as well as the interrelationships between the brain and such behaviors as eating, sleeping, learning, memory, emotion, and mental disorders will be discussed using examples from the behavior of both humans and lower organisms.
This undergraduate course is 5 weeks.
PLEASE NOTE:
Attendance and participation are mandatory in all university courses, and specific requirements may differ by course. If attendance requirements are not met, a student may be removed from the course. Please review the Course Attendance Policy in the Catalog for more information.
Course Objectives
Introduction to Biological Psychology
- Identify the components of genetics.
- Explain the effects of heritability on behavior.
- Identify the major structures and functions of the brain.
Neural Conduction and Plasticity
- Describe the stages of neural conduction and synaptic transmissions.
- Describe the role of primary neurotransmitters in brain function and behavior.
- Explain the role of neurotransmitters in mental disorders.
- Explain the function of neural plasticity.
Sensory and Motor Systems
- Identify the major structures of the central and peripheral nervous systems.
- Identify the neurological structures and functions of the five senses.
- Explain how the brain processes and interprets sensory information.
- Analyze the changes in the nervous system resulting from damage to structures controlling one of the five senses.
Regulatory Processes and Behaviors
- Explain the neurological involvement in a specific regulatory behavior.
- Describe the effects of emotions on regulatory behaviors.
- Evaluate the relationship between hormones and behavior.
- Describe the influence of sleep on optimal functioning.
Learning, Memory, and Cognition
- Illustrate the neurological components of learning and memory.
- Identify the factors that can influence the processes of learning, memory, cognition, and behavior.
- Analyze the role of brain lateralization on language.
Disclaimers
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Transferability of credit is at the discretion of the receiving institution. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm whether or not credits earned at University of Phoenix will be accepted by another institution of the student’s choice.