Best way to describe biopsychology and its theoretical framework. Thanks
Biopsychology deals with physical changes that affect behavior, especially neurological ones.
I searched Google under the key words "biopsychology" to get these possible sources:
http://psychology.about.com/od/biopsychology/a/biopsyc.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Biopsychology
http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761595625/biopsychology.html
In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search. Also see http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/.
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
Biopsychology, also known as physiological psychology or behavioral neuroscience, is a field that studies how processes in the brain and body contribute to behavior, cognition, and psychological functioning. It explores the biological foundations of behavior and seeks to understand how the brain, nervous system, and other physiological systems influence mental processes.
To describe biopsychology and its theoretical framework, it is important to understand the key components involved:
1. Biological Basis of Behavior: Biopsychology explores how the brain and nervous system are involved in various psychological processes. It investigates the structure and function of neurons, neural circuits, neurotransmitters, and brain regions to understand their role in behavior and cognition.
2. Nature vs. Nurture: Biopsychology examines the interaction between genetic and environmental factors in shaping behavior. It investigates how genetic predispositions interact with the environment, such as experiences and upbringing, to influence psychological processes.
3. Brain-Behavior Relationships: Biopsychology explores how different brain areas and neural circuits are associated with specific behaviors, emotions, cognitive processes, and mental disorders. It investigates the link between brain activity, neurotransmitter systems, and psychological functioning.
4. Psychophysiology: Biopsychology uses psychophysiological measures (e.g., EEG, fMRI, heart rate, hormone levels) to study the relationship between physiological processes and psychological states. This helps researchers understand how changes in the body relate to emotional experiences, stress responses, and psychological disorders.
5. Evolutionary Perspective: Biopsychology incorporates an evolutionary framework to explain behavior and psychological processes. It explores how adaptive traits have evolved over time to support survival and reproduction, and how these evolutionary factors interact with the modern environment to shape behavior.
Understanding the theoretical framework of biopsychology involves integrating biological principles with psychological theories. This interdisciplinary approach helps explain how biological factors, such as genetic predispositions, hormonal influences, brain structure, and neurotransmitter systems, contribute to various psychological processes and behaviors.
To delve deeper into the topic and gain a comprehensive understanding of biopsychology, I recommend exploring textbooks, research papers, and resources from reputable sources that cover this field in detail. Additionally, studying neuroscience, psychology, biology, and related subjects can provide a solid foundation for understanding biopsychology.