In this video I describe the organization of the nervous system, which includes the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, which is then divided into the somatic and autonomic divisions. Next I discuss the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems … Read More
Drugs and Neurotransmitters: Agonist or Antagonist?
In this video I discuss some ways that drugs can influence the functioning of neurotransmitters by binding to receptors on postsynaptic neurons. I explain the difference between agonist drugs which increase effects of a neurotransmitter and antagonist drugs which reduce … Read More
Introduction to Neurotransmitters
In this video I introduce several neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA, serotonin, and norepinephrine. I also describe some of the functions of each of these neurotransmitters, with the caveat to avoid oversimplifying the role of neurotransmitters in explaining complex behaviors. … Read More
What Happens to Neurotransmitters After Release?
In this video I explain what else can happen to a neurotransmitter after release (besides binding to a receptor on the postsynaptic neuron). These include reuptake, enzyme deactivation, and autoreception, and I provide mnemonics for remembering each of these processes. … Read More
How Neurons Communicate: The Synapse
In this video I explain how two neurons communicate using a neurotransmitter that travels across the synapse to receptor sites. This neurotransmitter can then influence the flow of ions in the postsynaptic neuron which can change its likelihood of firing … Read More
The Action Potential
In this video I explain how an action potential is triggered in a neuron when it reaches its threshold. I explain the movement of ions, resting potential, and the all or none principle of neural firing. I also cover how … Read More
Neuron Structure: Parts of a Neuron
In this video I describe the major parts of a neuron and briefly explain the function that each part serves. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel to see future videos! Have questions or topics you’d like to see covered … Read More
Split Brains and Hemisphere Specialization
One way of seeing differences between the two hemispheres comes from cases of patients with “split-brains”. These patients have had their corpus callosum severed in order to prevent the spread of epileptic seizures. While this process effectively stops the … Read More
Biological Bases of Behavior – Resources
On this page you’ll find a number of resources for understanding the biological approach to psychology as well as concepts of genetics and heritability. If I’ve missed a good resource, please share it in the comments section! General Resources Biological Bases … Read More
How Does Toxoplasmosis Affect the Brain?
I highly recommend checking out this excellent interview with one of my favorite lecturers, Robert Sapolsky. He discusses fascinating ways different parasites like toxoplasma gondii are able to take control of behavior via some surprising neurological mechanisms. It appears that … Read More