Chapter 3. Biopsychology
Chapter 3. Critical Thinking Questions
- Before the advent of modern imaging techniques, scientists and clinicians relied on autopsies of people who suffered brain injury with resultant change in behavior to determine how different areas of the brain were affected. What are some of the limitations associated with this traditional kind of approach?
- Chemical messengers are used in both the nervous system and the endocrine system. What properties do these two systems share? What properties are different? Which one would be faster? Which one would result in long-lasting changes?
- Hormone secretion is often regulated through a negative feedback mechanism, which means that once a hormone is secreted it will cause the hypothalamus and pituitary to shut down the production of signals necessary to secrete the hormone in the first place. Most oral contraceptives are made of small doses of estrogen and/or progesterone. Why would this be an effective means of contraception?
- Biopsychology often relies on studying animal models to gain insights into human behavior. What are the ethical considerations involved in conducting research on animals, and how do you personally navigate the balance between scientific advancement and animal welfare?
- The study of biopsychology often involves complex research methods, such as brain imaging techniques and genetic studies. What are the potential limitations and biases that can arise in biopsychological research, and how can you be a discerning consumer of scientific information?
