PSYCH 3401 21 Biological Psychology
This course surveys the connection between biology and human behavior. The class begins with a basic understanding of the brain, from micro-anatomy (e.g., neurons, neurotransmitters) to macro- anatomy (e.g., regional divisions within the brain stem and cerebral cortex) and proceeds to cover topics that range from sleep and dreams to the psychopharmacology of common drugs, from hunger and emotion to stress and psychological disorders. Primary attention is given to the basic principles of nervous system structure and function so as to clarify the operations of the brain that give rise to thought, feeling, and behavior, but this course presumes no previous college coursework in biology, and instead aims to provide a strong biological foundation for individuals considering careers in fields like psychology, medicine, neuroscience, and other related fields. Emphasis is given to organization and communication within the nervous system, the interaction of nature and nurture (e.g.,neuroplasticity), and to applications pertaining to everyday health and well-being.
Taught by Brian Bergstrom
