PSYCH 260ANeurological Bases of Human Behavior

3 credits · Psychology · Penn State

Biological Psychology is an area of psychology where the overall focus is the scientific study of behavior and experience, and underlying associated neurological and physiological processes. This course provides an overview of the biological bases of behavior and includes a presentation of the research, theory, and application of this knowledge. Specific topics include the basic anatomy and physiology of the central and peripheral nervous system, neural transmission and the function of various neurotransmitters. The majority of the course will focus on how these basic processes contribute to the processing of information from the senses, simple and complex learning, and cognitive processes such as memory, and language. Topics will include cover brain development, developmental and acquired neuropsychological disorders and therapeutic techniques. Content is presented through a combination of lectures, readings, demonstrations, and in-class activities. A major goal of the course is to show how questions relating brain and neural function to behavior are addressed through empirical research. The course introduces students to theories, research, and procedures used in psychological research and practice. It also promotes thinking about how students can apply this knowledge to enhance their lives. After taking this course students will be able to explain the relationship between brain and behavior. They will make more informed decisions about participating in future psychology courses and gain a better appreciation of the science and profession of psychology.