Unit 3 Biological Bases of Behavior

Study Plan

Objectives

Understand the relationship between biology and behavior

Gain an understanding of the nervous system and its interrelationship with the endocrine system

Identify the parts and functions of the brain.

Explain the various methods used to study the brain.

Evaluate theories concerning the nature/nurture debate

Topic
1. Introduction to the Biological Bases of Behavior

Lecture: An overview
Reading and discussion: ‘The boy without . . .’

A Tragic Update to the case of David Reimer

2. Neural Communication and The Nervous System (Chapter 2)

PowerPoint Presentation

Lecture and demonstration:
Dominoes and Action Potential

Reaction-time Measure of Neural transmission and Mental Processes

More information can be found at this link.

Graphic Organzers and the Nervous System

3. The Brain

Mapping the brain through structure and function.

Graphic Organizer and the Brain

Psychsim 5 (See Myers support material)

"Brain and Behavior" and "Hemispheric Specialization"

Video “The Behaving Brain” and “The Human Body”

Split Brain PowerPoint Presentation

Handout 2-2: Challenging the myth that we only use 10% of our brains.

Visit this outstanding website on the brain.

4. Genetics and Behavior (Chapter 3)

Lecture: Evolutionary Psychology
Reading: “Our Cheating Hearts”
Handout 3-2

Handout 3-3

5. Seminar: The nature and nurture of behavior

Topic: That biology is destiny.

What is a Seminar Presentation ?

Focus Questions

1. What is the relationship between genes and behavior?

• Reading pp. 100-101

2. In what ways do the ideas of Evolutionary Psychology support/reject the argument that biology is destiny?

• pp. 101-107
• Article "Our Cheating Hearts"
• Article Cave Thinkers
• Article "Biology isn't destiny"

3. Behavior Genetics has provided numerous insights into the naturer/nurture debate. What contributions have been made to date?

• Reading pp. 108-116

4. How does the prenatal environment, early experiences, peer influences and culture effect behavior?

• Reading pp. 108-125

5. Is your sex/gender the most important thing about about you?

• Reading pp126-130
• The New Sex Scorecard

6. Review

Assessment

1. Chapter Test

2. Seminar

Focus:
What do you think is meant by the saying: “Biology is destiny” ?


To what extent do you agree with its implications?