Introduction

Biopsychology explores how the brain and nervous system influence human behaviour. Basic understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying psychological processes is a must for anyone in the field of psychology. This knowledge forms the foundation for understanding more complex psychological processes and underlying mechanisms of psychopathology and neurological disorders later on. The present course is designed to serve as a primer to help you learn and understand the known biological underpinnings of human brain functioning, basic cognitive processes, sensation, perception, movement, regulation of biological rhythms, biological drives, learning, memory and emotional behaviours.

Course Objectives

  • To introduce participants to the field of biopsychology and theoretical sciences which has contributed to the understanding of biological mechanisms of human psychological processes

  • To introduce participants to the different research approaches and methods of biopsychology

  • To help participants develop basic knowledge of structure and function of human nervous system and its influence on human behaviour

  • To help participants develop basic understanding of the sensory and musculoskeletal systems and brain mechanism of sensation, perception and movement

  • To help participants develop basic understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms of creation and regulation of internal drives and biological rhythms.

  • To help participants understand the physiological mechanisms of learning and memory

  • To help participants know the neuroendocrinological mechanisms of creation and regulation of emotional behaviours.

Course Outcomes

On successful completion of the course, the participants will be able to

  1. Learn about the nature and scope of field of biopsychology

  2. Understand and explain the research methods of biopsychology

  3. Describe the structure and functions of the nervous system and its divisions

  4. Describe the physiological mechanisms of sensation and perception

  5. Demonstrate understanding of the brain mechanisms of movement

  6. Describe the neuroendocrinological mechanisms of biological rhythms

  7. Understanding the physiological mechanisms of learning and memory

  8. Describe the neurological mechanisms of creation and regulation of emotions.

BSc. Hons. (Applied Psychology) Biopsychology course syllabus.pdfBSc. Hons. (Applied Psychology) Biopsychology course syllabus.pdf