PSY340 Brain, Behavior, and Health (3 cr.)

This course provides an overview of physiological, genetic, and evolutionary explanations of behavior and health. Topics include genetics, the basic structure and function of the central nervous system, and how basic neural events function and influence behavior. The course focuses on the interaction among biological, psychological, and social factors on mental and physical health.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe the various methods used to study the biological basis of behavior.
2. Know and understand the basic divisions of the nervous system and its ontogenetic development.
3. Know and understand neural conduction, transmission, integration of neural signals and the major neurotransmitters and discuss the impact of each on behavior.
4. Understand basics of genetics and gene-environment interaction and discuss their role in behavior.
5. Discuss the role of the biological, psychological and social factors involved in causing, maintaining, contributing to, preventing, and treating specific health and disease issues.
6. Discuss the ethical implications involved in the study of brain, behavior, and health.