Thursday, October 9, 2008

The Brain and the Brain

Here's the quick and easy (and hopefully painless) introduction to the brain (presented by Pinky and the Brain). Just watch the video.

One cannot talk about Psychology without some reference to the brain itself. The physical structure of the brain is closely interlinked with our thoughts, beliefs and values. Any physical damage to the brain would mean a disruption to our mental faculties. A lot of psychological disorders have some basis in the brain.

Brain-scanning techniques measuring neural activity have allowed psychologists to pin-point what areas of the brain are associated with processes such as memory, learning, emotions, decision-making, movement, etc. One of the most often used technique is the fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging).

Unfortunately, biological psychology is not one of my strong points. However, I do see why it is useful and even necessary to learn about it.

Well, now you know the reason why people get so anxious when you hit your head.

Head trauma can actually totally change a person's personality (esp, if the injury is to the prefrontal cortex which is associated with decision-making, rationality). Things like personality and depression can be traced to your physical brain. Things like hostility and aggression are all regulated by the brain. Dementia is reflected in the physical degeneration of grey matter. We can actually predict what faculties you lose as you age.

What do you think about biopsychology? Love it (yes, I know people who do)? Hate it? Just skip the boring parts and give me the REAL interesting stuff!!!?


Ben said...


Anonymous said...

I like the video, it's cool! biopsych seems more tangible compared to other psychs -lisa

Mara said...

hahaz... bio psych appeals to the biologist in you lisa :)