Subjects

Subjects

More

AP Psych Unit 2 Study Guide: Biological Bases of Behavior - Free PDF & Answer Key

View

AP Psych Unit 2 Study Guide: Biological Bases of Behavior - Free PDF & Answer Key

AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior provides a comprehensive overview of the biological foundations underlying human behavior and mental processes. This study guide covers key topics including heredity, environment, evolution, the endocrine system, and the nervous system structure and function.

Key points:

  • Explores the interplay between genetic inheritance and environmental influences
  • Examines chromosomal abnormalities and their effects on development
  • Discusses evolutionary psychology principles and their impact on behavior
  • Details the structure and function of the endocrine and nervous systems
  • Explains neuron anatomy and the process of neural communication

This guide is essential for students preparing for the AP Psychology exam, offering in-depth explanations, examples, and definitions to master the biological bases of behavior.

1/16/2023

621

Neuron Types and Structure

This section of the AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior study guide focuses on the different types of neurons and their structures. It provides a detailed explanation of how these fundamental units of the nervous system function and communicate.

The guide identifies three main types of neurons:

  1. Sensory Neurons (Afferent): These neurons receive information from sensory receptors throughout the body and send it to the brain (CNS).

Highlight: The guide uses a mnemonic device to help students remember the function of afferent neurons: "A for approach the brain."

  1. Interneurons: Located in the CNS, these neurons facilitate internal communication and intervene between sensory inputs and motor outputs.

  2. Motor Neurons (Efferent): These neurons send information from the brain to the rest of the body.

Highlight: Another mnemonic is provided for efferent neurons: "E for exit the brain."

The text then delves into the structure of a neuron, describing its main components:

  • Cell Body (Soma): Contains the nucleus and directs the production of neurotransmitters.
  • Dendrites: Receive messages from other cells or the outside world and conduct impulses toward the cell body.
  • Axon: An extension through which messages are transmitted to other neurons, muscles, or glands.
  • Terminal Buttons: Located at the tips of axons, these secrete neurotransmitters when stimulated by an action potential.
  • Myelin Sheath: A fatty covering of the axon that speeds up conduction of neural impulses.

Definition: A neuron is defined as the basic building block of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting electrochemical signals.

This detailed explanation of neuron types and structures provides students with a solid foundation for understanding neural communication and the biological bases of behavior, essential for success in AP Psychology Unit 2.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Heredity, Environment, and Evolution in AP Psychology

This section explores the fundamental concepts of heredity, environment, and evolution in the context of AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior. It provides a comprehensive overview of how genetic and environmental factors shape human behavior and development.

Definition: Heredity refers to the genetic transmission of traits from parents to offspring, while environment encompasses all non-genetic influences from conception to death.

The guide delves into the structure of chromosomes and genes, explaining their role in determining individual traits. It also covers various chromosomal abnormalities and their effects on development and behavior.

Example: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is highlighted as a genetic disorder caused by a mutation on chromosome 12, leading to intellectual disability due to protein buildup.

The text introduces key studies and influential figures in the field, such as Charles Darwin and his theory of natural selection. It explains how evolutionary psychologists apply these principles to understand human behavior and mental processes.

Highlight: Twin studies are emphasized as a crucial method for examining the relative influence of nature (genes) and nurture (experiences) on human development.

The endocrine system is also introduced, with a focus on its role in chemical communication within the body. The guide explains the function of various glands and hormones, emphasizing their importance in regulating bodily processes and behavior.

Vocabulary: Hormones are defined as chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream, facilitating communication between different parts of the body.

This comprehensive overview provides students with a solid foundation for understanding the biological bases of behavior, essential for success in AP Psychology Unit 2.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

The Nervous System: Structure and Function

This section of the AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior study guide provides an in-depth exploration of the nervous system, its components, and functions. It offers a detailed breakdown of the central and peripheral nervous systems, crucial for understanding how the body processes information and responds to stimuli.

The guide begins by defining the nervous system as the body's speedy, electrochemical communication network. It then divides the nervous system into two main components:

  1. Central Nervous System (CNS): Comprising the brain and spinal cord
  2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Including all sensory and motor neurons outside the CNS

Definition: The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) consists of nerves outside the CNS that transmit information between the brain and the rest of the body.

The text further subdivides the PNS into the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and the Somatic Nervous System. The ANS is explained as controlling involuntary movements, with its two branches:

  • Sympathetic Nervous System: Responsible for the "fight or flight" response
  • Parasympathetic Nervous System: Manages the "rest and digest" functions

Example: The guide provides examples of ANS functions, such as regulating heartbeat, digestion, breathing, and blinking.

The Somatic Nervous System is described as controlling voluntary movements of skeletal muscles and conveying sensory information from the skin and muscles to the CNS.

The guide also introduces the concept of nerves as part of the PNS, describing them as "cables" containing many axons that connect the CNS with muscles, glands, and sense organs.

This comprehensive overview of the nervous system structure provides students with essential knowledge for understanding the biological bases of behavior in AP Psychology.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

Endocrine System and Its Interaction with the Nervous System

This section of the AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior study guide explores the endocrine system and its intricate relationship with the nervous system. It provides a comprehensive overview of how these two systems work together to regulate bodily functions and influence behavior.

The guide begins by explaining the basic function of the endocrine system:

Definition: The endocrine system consists of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream, acting as chemical messengers throughout the body.

Key components of the endocrine system are discussed, including:

  • Hypothalamus: An endocrine gland in the brain that produces hormones to stimulate or inhibit hormone secretion by the pituitary gland.
  • Pituitary Gland: Often called the "master gland," it produces hormones that control growth hormone production and regulates the endocrine system in conjunction with the hypothalamus.

The text emphasizes the importance of understanding glands as communication centers, sending and receiving hormonal messengers throughout the body.

A detailed table is provided, listing various glands and their functions:

  1. Pituitary: Regulates all other glands
  2. Pineal: Produces melatonin to regulate sleep/wake cycles
  3. Thyroid: Produces thyroxine to regulate metabolism
  4. Adrenal: Produces adrenaline for the fight or flight response
  5. Pancreas: Produces insulin to help process energy from food
  6. Ovaries and testes: Produce hormones necessary for reproduction

The guide then explores the interaction between the endocrine and nervous systems:

Highlight: While the endocrine system uses hormones to communicate with glands, the nervous system uses neurotransmitters to communicate with neurons. However, there is crossover, as neurotransmitters can interact with glands and hormones can affect neurons.

This comprehensive overview of the endocrine system and its relationship with the nervous system provides students with crucial knowledge for understanding the biological bases of behavior in AP Psychology Unit 2. It emphasizes the interconnected nature of these systems and their combined influence on human physiology and behavior.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

View

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

Knowunity was a featured story by Apple and has consistently topped the app store charts within the education category in Germany, Italy, Poland, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Join Knowunity today and help millions of students around the world.

Ranked #1 Education App

Download in

Google Play

Download in

App Store

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

4.9+

Average App Rating

13 M

Students use Knowunity

#1

In Education App Charts in 11 Countries

950 K+

Students uploaded study notes

Still not sure? Look at what your fellow peers are saying...

iOS User

I love this app so much [...] I recommend Knowunity to everyone!!! I went from a C to an A with it :D

Stefan S, iOS User

The application is very simple and well designed. So far I have found what I was looking for :D

SuSSan, iOS User

Love this App ❤️, I use it basically all the time whenever I'm studying

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

Knowunity was a featured story by Apple and has consistently topped the app store charts within the education category in Germany, Italy, Poland, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Join Knowunity today and help millions of students around the world.

Ranked #1 Education App

Download in

Google Play

Download in

App Store

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

4.9+

Average App Rating

13 M

Students use Knowunity

#1

In Education App Charts in 11 Countries

950 K+

Students uploaded study notes

Still not sure? Look at what your fellow peers are saying...

iOS User

I love this app so much [...] I recommend Knowunity to everyone!!! I went from a C to an A with it :D

Stefan S, iOS User

The application is very simple and well designed. So far I have found what I was looking for :D

SuSSan, iOS User

Love this App ❤️, I use it basically all the time whenever I'm studying

View

AP Psych Unit 2 Study Guide: Biological Bases of Behavior - Free PDF & Answer Key

AP Psych Unit 2 Study Guide: Biological Bases of Behavior - Free PDF & Answer Key

AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior provides a comprehensive overview of the biological foundations underlying human behavior and mental processes. This study guide covers key topics including heredity, environment, evolution, the endocrine system, and the nervous system structure and function.

Key points:

  • Explores the interplay between genetic inheritance and environmental influences
  • Examines chromosomal abnormalities and their effects on development
  • Discusses evolutionary psychology principles and their impact on behavior
  • Details the structure and function of the endocrine and nervous systems
  • Explains neuron anatomy and the process of neural communication

This guide is essential for students preparing for the AP Psychology exam, offering in-depth explanations, examples, and definitions to master the biological bases of behavior.

1/16/2023

621

Neuron Types and Structure

This section of the AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior study guide focuses on the different types of neurons and their structures. It provides a detailed explanation of how these fundamental units of the nervous system function and communicate.

The guide identifies three main types of neurons:

  1. Sensory Neurons (Afferent): These neurons receive information from sensory receptors throughout the body and send it to the brain (CNS).

Highlight: The guide uses a mnemonic device to help students remember the function of afferent neurons: "A for approach the brain."

  1. Interneurons: Located in the CNS, these neurons facilitate internal communication and intervene between sensory inputs and motor outputs.

  2. Motor Neurons (Efferent): These neurons send information from the brain to the rest of the body.

Highlight: Another mnemonic is provided for efferent neurons: "E for exit the brain."

The text then delves into the structure of a neuron, describing its main components:

  • Cell Body (Soma): Contains the nucleus and directs the production of neurotransmitters.
  • Dendrites: Receive messages from other cells or the outside world and conduct impulses toward the cell body.
  • Axon: An extension through which messages are transmitted to other neurons, muscles, or glands.
  • Terminal Buttons: Located at the tips of axons, these secrete neurotransmitters when stimulated by an action potential.
  • Myelin Sheath: A fatty covering of the axon that speeds up conduction of neural impulses.

Definition: A neuron is defined as the basic building block of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting electrochemical signals.

This detailed explanation of neuron types and structures provides students with a solid foundation for understanding neural communication and the biological bases of behavior, essential for success in AP Psychology Unit 2.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Heredity, Environment, and Evolution in AP Psychology

This section explores the fundamental concepts of heredity, environment, and evolution in the context of AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior. It provides a comprehensive overview of how genetic and environmental factors shape human behavior and development.

Definition: Heredity refers to the genetic transmission of traits from parents to offspring, while environment encompasses all non-genetic influences from conception to death.

The guide delves into the structure of chromosomes and genes, explaining their role in determining individual traits. It also covers various chromosomal abnormalities and their effects on development and behavior.

Example: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is highlighted as a genetic disorder caused by a mutation on chromosome 12, leading to intellectual disability due to protein buildup.

The text introduces key studies and influential figures in the field, such as Charles Darwin and his theory of natural selection. It explains how evolutionary psychologists apply these principles to understand human behavior and mental processes.

Highlight: Twin studies are emphasized as a crucial method for examining the relative influence of nature (genes) and nurture (experiences) on human development.

The endocrine system is also introduced, with a focus on its role in chemical communication within the body. The guide explains the function of various glands and hormones, emphasizing their importance in regulating bodily processes and behavior.

Vocabulary: Hormones are defined as chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream, facilitating communication between different parts of the body.

This comprehensive overview provides students with a solid foundation for understanding the biological bases of behavior, essential for success in AP Psychology Unit 2.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Nervous System: Structure and Function

This section of the AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior study guide provides an in-depth exploration of the nervous system, its components, and functions. It offers a detailed breakdown of the central and peripheral nervous systems, crucial for understanding how the body processes information and responds to stimuli.

The guide begins by defining the nervous system as the body's speedy, electrochemical communication network. It then divides the nervous system into two main components:

  1. Central Nervous System (CNS): Comprising the brain and spinal cord
  2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Including all sensory and motor neurons outside the CNS

Definition: The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) consists of nerves outside the CNS that transmit information between the brain and the rest of the body.

The text further subdivides the PNS into the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and the Somatic Nervous System. The ANS is explained as controlling involuntary movements, with its two branches:

  • Sympathetic Nervous System: Responsible for the "fight or flight" response
  • Parasympathetic Nervous System: Manages the "rest and digest" functions

Example: The guide provides examples of ANS functions, such as regulating heartbeat, digestion, breathing, and blinking.

The Somatic Nervous System is described as controlling voluntary movements of skeletal muscles and conveying sensory information from the skin and muscles to the CNS.

The guide also introduces the concept of nerves as part of the PNS, describing them as "cables" containing many axons that connect the CNS with muscles, glands, and sense organs.

This comprehensive overview of the nervous system structure provides students with essential knowledge for understanding the biological bases of behavior in AP Psychology.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Endocrine System and Its Interaction with the Nervous System

This section of the AP Psychology Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior study guide explores the endocrine system and its intricate relationship with the nervous system. It provides a comprehensive overview of how these two systems work together to regulate bodily functions and influence behavior.

The guide begins by explaining the basic function of the endocrine system:

Definition: The endocrine system consists of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream, acting as chemical messengers throughout the body.

Key components of the endocrine system are discussed, including:

  • Hypothalamus: An endocrine gland in the brain that produces hormones to stimulate or inhibit hormone secretion by the pituitary gland.
  • Pituitary Gland: Often called the "master gland," it produces hormones that control growth hormone production and regulates the endocrine system in conjunction with the hypothalamus.

The text emphasizes the importance of understanding glands as communication centers, sending and receiving hormonal messengers throughout the body.

A detailed table is provided, listing various glands and their functions:

  1. Pituitary: Regulates all other glands
  2. Pineal: Produces melatonin to regulate sleep/wake cycles
  3. Thyroid: Produces thyroxine to regulate metabolism
  4. Adrenal: Produces adrenaline for the fight or flight response
  5. Pancreas: Produces insulin to help process energy from food
  6. Ovaries and testes: Produce hormones necessary for reproduction

The guide then explores the interaction between the endocrine and nervous systems:

Highlight: While the endocrine system uses hormones to communicate with glands, the nervous system uses neurotransmitters to communicate with neurons. However, there is crossover, as neurotransmitters can interact with glands and hormones can affect neurons.

This comprehensive overview of the endocrine system and its relationship with the nervous system provides students with crucial knowledge for understanding the biological bases of behavior in AP Psychology Unit 2. It emphasizes the interconnected nature of these systems and their combined influence on human physiology and behavior.

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2A-C: Heredity, Environment, Evolution
Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%)
●
Heredity: genetically transmitted or transmittable fro

Sign up

Sign up to get unlimited access to thousands of study materials. It's free!

Access to all documents

Join milions of students

Improve your grades

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

Knowunity was a featured story by Apple and has consistently topped the app store charts within the education category in Germany, Italy, Poland, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Join Knowunity today and help millions of students around the world.

Ranked #1 Education App

Download in

Google Play

Download in

App Store

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

4.9+

Average App Rating

13 M

Students use Knowunity

#1

In Education App Charts in 11 Countries

950 K+

Students uploaded study notes

Still not sure? Look at what your fellow peers are saying...

iOS User

I love this app so much [...] I recommend Knowunity to everyone!!! I went from a C to an A with it :D

Stefan S, iOS User

The application is very simple and well designed. So far I have found what I was looking for :D

SuSSan, iOS User

Love this App ❤️, I use it basically all the time whenever I'm studying