Hormones
What are hormones? Another messenger in our body Chemical substances, secreted by organs (glands) that affect the functioning of other organs. Endocrine System is the hormone system in our body.
3 hormones that psychologists are interested in Melatonin –promotes sleep Regulates our “biological clock” Gland responds to light and dark Adrenal hormones – Are involved in emotion and stress When they are released in your body, activates sympathetic nervous system Can enhance memory
3 hormones that psychologists are interested in Sex hormones Androgens (testosterone) masculinizing hormones Set in motion changes that occur during puberty Estrogens – feminizing hormones that bring on puberty in females What affects do these have on our behavior/mental processes?
A Tour Through The Brain
The Brain Stem and Cerebellum Thalamus Pons Cerebellum Reticular Formation Medulla Brain Stem Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007
Brain Stem Oldest part of the brain Pathways crossover in the brain stem (left side of brain controls right side of both, visa-versa) includes the medulla, pons and the Reticular (formation) Activation System = arouses the cortex to keep the brain alert and attentive . Wakefulness.
Medulla It controls basic life support functions like your heartbeat, blood pressure and breathing. Operates on “autopilot”
Pons Regulation of our states of wake/sleep cycle and dreaming. Acts as a bridge that connects the brain stem to the cerebellum
Cerebellum (little brain) Involved in our sense of balance and coordination of our muscles. If your cerebellum is damaged you would be exceedingly clumsy and uncoordinated.
Thalamus Top of the Brain Stem, near the center of the brain. directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex. *Smell is the only sense that it DOES NOT go through this structure. Has a role in focusing attention.
Brain stem and cerebellum Together control the basic functions of operation. Much of their work functions outside our awareness.