what is biopsychology

10 months ago 29
Nature

Biopsychology, also known as behavioral neuroscience, biological psychology, or psychobiology, is the study of the biological mechanisms of behavior and mental processes. It examines the role of the nervous system, particularly the brain, in explaining behavior and the mind. Biopsychologists analyze how biological processes interact with emotions, cognitions, and other mental functions, focusing on the application of the principles of biology to the study of physiological, genetic, evolutionary, and developmental mechanisms of behavior in humans and other animals. This interdisciplinary field involves the application of neurobiology to understand the physiological, genetic, and developmental aspects of behavior, particularly at the level of nerves, neurotransmitters, brain circuitry, and basic biological processes that underlie normal and abnormal behavior. Biopsychology is a branch of psychology that concentrates on the role of biological factors, such as the central and peripheral nervous systems, neurotransmitters, hormones, genes, and evolution on behavior and mental processes_-_DRAFT_for_Review/01%3A_Biopsychology_as_a_Course_of_Study/1.01%3A_What_is_Biopsychology).