General Psychology
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Chapter: Neuron


Main processes:
Process of message being sent across synaptic gap
Process of action potential
How drugs could influence synaptic gap process
Terms & Information:
neurotransmitter, receptor site, membrane, sending neuron, receiving neuron, enzyme, reuptake
all-or-none, dendrite, axon, cell body, myelin sheath
electrical and chemical parts of transmission


Implications & Applications:
Types of complexity - possible ways drugs could affect synapses across the brain.
How are complex thoughts, memories are communicated through systems of impulses? Difference between "more brain activity" and "coordinated brain activity".

Therapy Medications


o compare biological approach with other approaches
o main approaches - drug, surgery, electroshock
o rationale behind each approach
o know one drug used for psych disorder, neurotransmitter it affects, and how it works in the synaptic gap o know one or two of the complexities related to prescribing drugs, and how it relates to the mechanisms in the synaptic gap.

Example Questions

7. Describe one complexity in terms of the neuron/synapse process that makes simple interpretations like "more serotonin is related to activity level, so if we give you something that increases serotonin activity, you should be more alert." Or "Here's a pill that will increase firing in your brain, making you smarter, healthier, and just all around better."

Identify 2. Describe one way in which drugs decrease the amount of neuron firing in a synaptic gap.

(Implication) 3. Describe one potential reason that a drug that affects one neurotransmitter could have many affects on the brain.