Biological Psychology

(2.5-4 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

The course provides an overview of the field of psychobiology. Drawing both from the biological and psychological sciences, the course introduces students to the structures and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems, with a focus on how they influence mental processes and behavior. Students will gain the foundational knowledge to understand how biological processes inform the human experience. They will learn how the activity of neurons can yield simple motor actions as well as complex behavioral states and functions (e.g., motivation). Sample topics include: the basic anatomy of the nervous system, neural communication, brain development, as well as the neural basis of sensation, perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotion, sleep and consciousness. Sydney, Australia (SY): This unit explores four foundational areas in psychology: learning and behaviour, clinical psychology, developmental psychology, and neuroscience. The lecture series emphasizes the underlying processes that shape behaviour, emotions, and motivation, examining both typical development and the emergence of psychopathologies. In tutorials, students will engage in a behaviour change group project, where they analyze the sources of their own behavior, design and implement a change plan, and assess its impact on behaviour and mental health. This project is particularly relevant for students interested in applied and clinical psychology. Additional tutorial modules focus on developmental psychology and neuroscience, providing a comprehensive understanding of these key areas.