Introduction to the Biological Level of Analysis

IB Psychology SL

Principles the Define the Biological Level of Analysis

1. Reject the idea that the mind exists independently of the physical brain.

• EVERY TIME YOU THINK… YOUR BRAIN IS DOING SOMETHING IMPORTANT!

2. Behavior is the result of a biodirectional process.

• Biology and the Environment influence each other in a reciprocal relationship.

3. Animal models establish a base from which to consider human behavior.

Principles the Define the Biological Level of Analysis

Biological Level- Learning Outcomes

1. General Outcomes• Outline principles that define the biological level of

analysis

• Explain how principles that define the biological level of analysis may be demonstrated in research.

• Discuss how and why particular research methods are used at the biological level of analysis.

• Discuss ethical considerations related to research studies at the biological level of analysis.

2. Physiology and Behavior– Explain on study related to localization of function in the brain. – Using one or more examples, explain effects of

neurotransmission on human behavior. – Using one or more examples, explain functions of two

hormones in human behavior.– Discuss the effects of environment on physiological processes. – Examine one interaction between cognition and physiology in

terms of behavior. Evaluate two relevant studies. – Discuss the use of brain imaging technologies in investigating

the relationship between biological factors and behavior.

Biological Level- Learning Outcomes

3. Genetics and Behavior• With reference to relevant research

studies, to what extent does genetic inheritance influence behavior.

• Examine one evolutionary explanation of behavior.

• Discuss ethical considerations into genetic influences on behavior.

Biological Level- Learning Outcomes

Review of the Brain, Neurons, Neurochemicals, and genetics!!

The Neuron

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Neural Communication: Action Potential

Neural Communication: Synapses

Neurotransmitters

How Neurotransmitter Affect Us

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The Nervous System

The Nervous System

Nervous System

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Autonomic Nervous System

The Endocrine System

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What does the Endocrine System Do?

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Hormones Hormone Gland Action

Testosterone / Estrogen Testes/ Ovaries Controls puberty and sext production.

Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH)

Pituitary gland Controls blood water level by triggering uptake of water in the kidneys.

Cortisol Adrenal gland “stress” hormone

Thyroxine Pituitary gland Controls metabolic rate.

Adrenaline Adrenal gland Prepares body for action (fight-or-flight)

Glucagon Pancreas Controls blood sugar levels by decreasing uptake of glucose.

Insulin Pancreas Controls blood sugar levels by increasing uptake of glucose.

The Brain

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Limbic System

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Hindbrain

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Genetics• DNA

• Genotype / Phenotype

• Mendel and Punnet Squares

• Dominant/ Recessive Genes

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Twin and Adoption Studies