15 credits

FHEQ Level 4

Module Outline

"Psychobiology" is a first year, core module that offers students a first overview of the various topic-areas relevant to understanding human and non-human animal behavior from a biological and/or evolutionary perspective. The module begins by discussing the basic anatomy of the peripheral- and central nervous systems (brain and spinal cord), as well as the structure and physiological function of nervous cells (neurons), including synaptic neurotransmission, hormonal actions, and intracellular electrical processes. Additionally, an introduction to systems neuropsychology is given and the effects of drugs on neuronal functioning are discussed. Next, brain-behaviour relations are discussed in greater detail focusing on three broad topic areas: First, the biological basis of emotions are considered from a hormonal- and brain systems perspective. Second, essential motivated behaviors are considered by exploring both homeostatic and non-homeostatic peripheral and central mechanisms underlying drinking and eating behaviour. Third the brain mechanisms that allow organisms to acquire, store and retrieve new information and alter their behaviours are discussed focussing on historical and recent experimental findings from studies on human- and non-human learning & memory. The final section of the module takes a more evolutionary perspective to explore how many components and aspect of human behaviour have been shaped by adaptation and selection, relying on field studies into the foundations of animal behaviour.

View timetable

Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Dr Hans Crombag

Convenor, Assess convenor
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/profiles/206917