Chapter Outline

This chapter focuses on the biological structures of the body that are of interest to biopsychologists. Initially the discussion will be on nerve cells, called neurons, which allow messages to travel through the brain and the body. Psychologists are increasing their understanding of human behavior and are uncovering important clues in their efforts to cure certain kinds of diseases through their growing knowledge of these neurons and the nervous system. Then a review of the structure and the main divisions of the nervous system will lead to a discussion on how the different areas work to control voluntary and involuntary behaviors. The chapter also examines how the various parts of the nervous system operate together in emergency situations to produce lifesaving responses to danger.

Next, the brain itself will be considered by examining its major structures and the ways in which these affect behavior. The brain controls movement, our senses, and our thought processes. It is also fascinating to focus on the idea that the two halves of the brain may have different specialties and strengths and so this area will be discussed and the research presented. Finally, the chemical messenger system of the body, the endocrine system, will be studied.

To further investigate the topics covered in this chapter, you can visit the related websites by visiting the following link:
http://www.mhhe.com/feldmanup6-03links.

Prologue: The Fight of His Life

• Looking Ahead

Section 1: Neurons: The Elements of Behavior

• The Structure of the Neuron
• Firing the Neuron
• Where Neurons Meet: Bridging the Gap
• Neurotransmitters: Multitalented Chemical Couriers

Section 2: The Nervous System

• Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems
• The Evolutionary Foundations of the Nervous System
• Behavioral Genetics

Section 3: The Brain

• Studying the Brain's Structure and Functions: Spying on the Brain
• The Central Core: Our "Old Brain"

• The Limbic System: Beyond the Central Core
• The Cerebral Cortex: Our "New Brain"
• Mending the Brain
• The Specialization of the Hemispheres: Two Brains or One?

• The Split Brain: Exploring the Two Hemispheres
• The Endocrine System: Of Chemicals and Glands