Chapter 1 Visual Summary
Biological psychology is a branch of neuroscience that focuses on the biological bases of behavior. It is closely related to many other neuroscience disciplines. Review Figure 1.1, Animation 1.2
Although humans have wondered about the control of behavior for thousands of years, only comparatively recently has a mechanistic view of the brain taken hold. Review Figure 1.3
The concept of localization of function, which originated in phrenology—despite obvious flaws with the phrenologists' methodology—was an important milestone for biological psychology. Localization of cognitive functions remains a major focus of behavioral neuroscience. With modern imaging technology and a more carefully validated understanding of cognitive abilities, a detailed view of the organization of the
brain is emerging. Today we know that the part of the brain that shows a peak of activity varies in a predictable way depending on what task we’re doing. Review Figure 1.4
The prevalence of neurological and psychiatric disorders exacts a very high emotional and economic toll. Review Figure 1.6
Although genes can have a major impact on brain function, it is clear that experience physically alters the brain and that genetically identical people will not necessarily suffer from the same brain disorders. Review Figure 1.7
Behavioral neuroscientists balance three general research perspectives—correlation, somatic intervention, and behavioral intervention—in designing their research. Review Figure 1.10
Research in behavioral neuroscience is conducted at levels of analysis ranging from molecular events to the functioning of the entire brain and complex social situations. Review Figure 1.11