Biopsychology
Get This Book
Some links on Amerbach are affiliate links, which may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
About This Book
Biopsychology provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the study of the biological basis of behavior. The text integrates current research with foundational principles, covering topics such as neuroanatomy, neural conduction, synaptic transmission, and the biological mechanisms underlying sensory systems, motor control, and complex psychological processes like memory, emotion, and psychological disorders.
Book Review | Amerbach
Biopsychology, 11th Edition, serves as a foundational resource for students navigating the intersection of biological processes and psychological phenomena. The book is structured to guide readers through the complexities of the nervous system, beginning with the fundamental anatomy and physiology of neurons before expanding into the biological underpinnings of sensory perception, motor systems, and higher-order cognitive functions. A notable characteristic of this edition is its emphasis on the integration of clinical case studies with experimental research, which helps bridge the gap between theoretical neuroscience and practical application. The authors maintain a consistent focus on the scientific method, encouraging students to evaluate evidence critically rather than merely memorizing biological structures. The scope of the book is broad, covering essential topics such as the neurobiology of learning and memory, the hormonal regulation of behavior, and the biological basis of psychiatric and neurological disorders. By utilizing clear, illustrative diagrams and accessible prose, the text demystifies intricate physiological pathways, making them approachable for students who may have limited backgrounds in biology. The organization of the chapters follows a logical progression, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of how neural circuits influence human behavior. Furthermore, the inclusion of contemporary research findings ensures that the material remains relevant to the current state of the field. In the context of academic study, this book functions as a primary reference for undergraduate courses in biopsychology or physiological psychology. It provides the necessary depth for students to grasp the mechanisms of neural function while remaining grounded in the psychological implications of those mechanisms. For those seeking a rigorous yet readable introduction to the biological foundations of behavior, this book offers a balanced and well-supported framework that facilitates both classroom learning and independent study.
Academic Use
Introductory Biopsychology or Physiological Psychology courses
Who Is It For?
Undergraduate students in psychology, neuroscience, and related health science disciplines.
Table of Contents
- 1. Biopsychology as a Neuroscience
- 2. Evolution, Genetics, and Experience
- 3. Anatomy of the Nervous System
- 4. Neural Conduction and Synaptic Transmission
- 5. The Research Methods of Biopsychology
- 6. The Visual System
- 7. Mechanisms of Perception: Hearing, Touch, Smell, Taste, and Attention
- 8. The Sensorimotor System
- 9. Development of the Nervous System
- 10. Brain Damage and Neuroplasticity
- 11. Learning, Memory, and Amnesia
- 12. Hunger, Eating, and Health
- 13. Hormones and Sex
- 14. Sleep, Dreaming, and Circadian Rhythms
- 15. Drug Use, Drug Addiction, and the Brain's Reward Circuits
- 16. Lateralization, Language, and the Split Brain
- 17. Biopsychology of Emotion, Stress, and Health
- 18. Biopsychology of Psychiatric Disorders.