Topic 1: Introduction to Psychology
What is psychology?
The scientific study of behaviour and mental processes.
What are the two divisions of the Nervous System
Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems
What does an interneuron do?
Interneurons are the central nodes of the nervous system, connecting sensory and motor neurons to process, integrate, and relay information within the brain and spinal cord.
Name the 4 lobes of the brain
Frontal, Temporal, Parietal, Occipital
What does a Neurotransmitter do?
Carry chemical signals (“messages”) from one neuron (nerve cell) to the next target cell.
Where does the term "psychology" originate from (Greek)?
•psyche – the mind
•logos – study or knowledge
What does the Central Nervous System consist of?
Brain & Spinal Cord
What are dendrites?
This part of the neuron receives incoming messages.
What does the Temporal Lobe do?
processing auditory information, language comprehension (Wernicke’s area), and high-level auditory processing.
What is serotonin?
This neurotransmitter is linked to mood regulation and is often associated with depression.
What is the role of a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in mental health who diagnoses, treats, and prevents mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
What does the Autonomic Nervous System division do?
(ANS) regulates involuntary, automatic bodily functions to maintain homeostasis (internal stability) without conscious effort.
Name the 3 types of Neurons
Sensory, Inter-neuron, Motor
Name the 3 divisions of the Brain
Forebrain, Mid Brain, Hind brain
What is Dopamine involved in with the brain?
•Reward, motivation, pleasure, movement. Influences behaviours like seeking rewards, goal‑directed activity.
Name 3 types of Psychologists.
Clinical neuropsychologists
Clinical psychologists
Educational and developmental psychologist
Forensic psychologist
Health psychologist
Organisational psychologist
Sport and exercise psychologist
What occurs in the Somatic Nervous System
Neurons- Sensory and Motor
What is the a fatty, insulating layer wrapped around nerve cell axons that drastically increases the speed and efficiency of electrical impulse propagation.
Myelin Sheath
Which area of the brain is responsible for smooth and coordinated movements?
Cerebellum
In your own words, explain one way dopamine affects behaviour
Dopamine effects behaviour by triggering reward pathways and goal-directed behaviours
Name two differences between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist.
Psychiatrist- Can prescribe medication; medical study
Psychologist- Cannot prescribe mediation, less study.
What does the Parasympathetic Nervous System do?
Acts as the body's "rest and digest" system
What is the Soma?
Cell Body- Part that contains the nucleus and organelles
Identify the three main parts of the hindbrain and their functions
Cerebellum: Function: Coordinates voluntary movements, balance, posture, and motor learning.
Medulla Oblongata: Function: Controls vital involuntary functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.
Pons: Function: Acts as a bridge between different parts of the brain; involved in sleep, respiration, and facial expressions.
What is the difference between a Neurotransmitter and a Neurohormone?
Neurotransmitters work instantly over tiny synaptic gaps between neurons, while neurohormones enter the bloodstream to act as hormones, targeting distant organs over longer periods.