Psychological Science, 2 ed.

Chapter 3: Genetic and Biological Foundations

Chapter Outline

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• Heredity Involves Passing along Genes through Reproduction
• Genotypic Variation Is Created by Sexual Reproduction
• Genes Affect Behavior
• Social and Environmental Contexts Influence Genetic Expression
• Gene Expression Can Be Modified

• Neurons Are Specialized for Communication
• Action Potentials Cause Neuronal Communication
• Changes in Electrical Potential Lead to Action
• Action Potentials Spread along the Axon
• Neurotransmitters Bind to Receptors across the Synapse

• Acetylcholine Affects Motor Control and Mental Processes
• Monoamines Are Involved in Affect, Arousal, and Motivation
• Amino Acids Are General Inhibitory and Excitatory Transmitters in the Brain
• Peptides Modulate Neurotransmission

• The Central Nervous System Consists of the Brain and Spinal Cord
• The Peripheral Nervous System Includes the Somatic and Autonomic Systems
• The Endocrine System Communicates through Hormones
• Actions of the Nervous System and Endocrine System Are Coordinated