Unit 1: Biological Basis of Behavior

Unit Overview

Although we tend to think of our minds as separate from our bodies, there are many biological functions that affect our behavior in different ways. This unit is dedicated to providing resources about the brain's structure and how it receives chemical and electrical signals via neurons and neurotransmitters. You'll also learn about our complex system of glands, which secrete hormones that affect our mood and temperament. The nature versus nurture debate is one of the biggest questions scientists have asked, and we'll look at how genetics play a role in the formation of personality and behavior.

Unit Objectives

Examine how inherited traits, evolution, and the environment shape behavior
Understand nervous system structures, neuronal communication, and psychoactive substances
Identify key brain structures and their functions
Explore states of consciousness: sleep and sensation

Exam Weight: 15–25%

College Board Expects Students To:

Explain the relationship between heredity and environment in shaping behavior and mental processes.
Differentiate among the subsystems of the human nervous system and their functions.
Explain how the structures and functions of typical neurons in the central nervous system affect behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the basic process of neural transmission is related to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how psychoactive drugs affect behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the structures and functions of the brain apply to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the sleep/wake cycle affects behavior and mental processes throughout the day and night.
Explain how the process of sensation is related to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the structures and functions of the visual sensory system relate to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the structures and functions of the auditory sensory system relate to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the structures and functions of the chemical sensory systems relate to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the structures and functions of the touch sensory system relate to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the structures and functions of the pain sensory system relate to behavior and mental processes.
Explain how the structures and functions that maintain balance (vestibular) and body movement (kinesthetic) relate to behavior and mental processes.