General Psychologyblog Topic Week 2id Hate To Lose My Clearly ✓ Solved
General Psychology Blog Topic - Week 2 I'd Hate to Lose My . . . Clearly, the brain is a vital part of the body. But suppose you were the subject of a diabolical experiment looking at the functions of the various brain areas. A mad scientist wants to do "removal studies" in order to isolate these functions. The mad scientist does have a heart though--he lets his subjects decide which brain structures they'd like to give up.
If you were a subject in this heinous (and thankfully fictional) experiment, which three brain structures would you be willing to give up? Week 2 Assignment Chapter . Do you think it's possible that personality is completely localized in one portion of the brain? If so, how could you explain the fact that someone's personality can seem to change depending on the situation? 2.
Other than as a treatment for epilepsy, can you think of any situations in which having a split brain might actually be more beneficial than a unified brain? 3. Initiation of the flight or fight response clearly has adaptive value. Can you think of any circumstances in which this response might actually lower the chances of an adaptive response? 4.
Define the field known as neuroscience. 5.What is the function of the endocrine system? What are hormones? What does the pituitary gland do? 6.
Distinguish between a genotype and a phenotype. Chapter 4 TV Characters and Erikson's stages In this exercise, it's your assignment to watch TV! Look over Erikson's stages and the "psychosocial conflicts" that he claims are encountered by people entering various stages of life. Television shows are filled with people in different stages of life (although you will find more TV shows focusing on the 20-50 set than on any other). Pick out four characters (or real people, in the case of talk shows) from TV shows that differ substantially in age, covering different parts of the life span.
These characters might be in four different shows, or might all be in the same show. What are the everyday trials and tribulations experienced by these characters? What are their main concerns or worries? Do they fit in with Erikson's stages of development? Explain.
General Psychology Blog Topic - Week 2 I'd Hate to Lose My . . . Clearly, the brain is a vital part of the body. But suppose you were the subject of a diabolical experiment looking at the functions of the various brain areas. A mad scientist wants to do "removal studies" in order to isolate these functions. The mad scientist does have a heart though--he lets his subjects decide which brain structures they'd like to give up.
If you were a subject in this heinous (and thankfully fictional) experiment, which three brain structures would you be willing to give up? Week 2 Assignment Chapter . Do you think it's possible that personality is completely localized in one portion of the brain? If so, how could you explain the fact that someone's personality can seem to change depending on the situation? 2.
Other than as a treatment for epilepsy, can you think of any situations in which having a split brain might actually be more beneficial than a unified brain? 3. Initiation of the flight or fight response clearly has adaptive value. Can you think of any circumstances in which this response might actually lower the chances of an adaptive response? 4.
Define the field known as neuroscience. 5.What is the function of the endocrine system? What are hormones? What does the pituitary gland do? 6.
Distinguish between a genotype and a phenotype. Chapter 4 TV Characters and Erikson's stages In this exercise, it's your assignment to watch TV! Look over Erikson's stages and the "psychosocial conflicts" that he claims are encountered by people entering various stages of life. Television shows are filled with people in different stages of life (although you will find more TV shows focusing on the 20-50 set than on any other). Pick out four characters (or real people, in the case of talk shows) from TV shows that differ substantially in age, covering different parts of the life span.
These characters might be in four different shows, or might all be in the same show. What are the everyday trials and tribulations experienced by these characters? What are their main concerns or worries? Do they fit in with Erikson's stages of development? Explain.
Paper for above instructions
General Psychology Blog Topic - Week 2
Introduction to the Brain and its Structures
The human brain is one of the most intricate and vital organs, responsible for an array of functions from regulating bodily processes to facilitating complex thought. In a hypothetical scenario where a mad scientist permits individuals to choose which brain structures they would give up, there are profound implications to consider regarding human behavior, personality, and physiological responses.
Choosing Three Brain Structures to Give Up
If I were to volunteer for this experiment, I would choose to remove the amygdala, hippocampus, and perhaps cerebellum. The amygdala is crucial for emotional processing, particularly fear and pleasure responses (LeDoux, 2014). While my emotional intelligence plays a significant role in my interactions and overall well-being, I am curious how life would be without the sometimes overwhelming influence of fear and anxiety on my decisions.
Next is the hippocampus, essential for memory formation and learning (Squire, 2004). Without it, I would lose the capacity for long-term memory, but I may also be liberated from the burden of past traumas and regrets, experiencing life more reflexively and presently, albeit without the depth of learned wisdom.
Lastly, I would consider removing the cerebellum, which coordinates voluntary movements and balance. While this would impair physical coordination, I find that I rely more on cognitive processes and social interactions than physical prowess in my daily life.
Personality Localization in the Brain
The question of whether personality exists in a localized portion of the brain is complex. Research indicates that personality traits are associated with activity in various regions, notably in the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making and social behaviour (DeYoung, 2006). However, personality is not entirely localized; it is a dynamic interplay of genetics, environment, and situational context. For instance, it’s evident that external factors and social interactions can lead to temporary changes in traits such as extroversion or agreeableness (Roberts et al., 2006).
Benefits of a Split Brain
Although split-brain surgery is primarily used to treat epilepsy, it has potential benefits in other areas. A split brain may be advantageous in enhancing creativity. For instance, the left hemisphere is typically associated with logical thinking, whereas the right hemisphere handles creative tasks (Gazzaniga, 2000). In certain problem-solving scenarios, individuals with a split brain might engage both hemispheres more freely, potentially leading to novel connections and creative outcomes.
The Flight or Fight Response Dilemma
The fight-or-flight response is an evolutionary adaptation that prepares the body for immediate reaction in face of threats (Cannon, 1932). However, there are situations where this response may not be beneficial. In social situations such as public speaking, this response could lead to heightened anxiety, which may impair performance and lower the chances of success (Schmeichel et al., 2004). Additionally, in situations of non-immediate threats, such as chronic stressors, the prolonged activation of the fight-or-flight response may lead to health issues rather than safety.
Understanding Neuroscience
Neuroscience is the multidisciplinary study of the nervous system and the brain. It encompasses various fields such as psychology, biology, and chemistry to understand neural mechanisms that underpin behavior, cognition, and emotions (Bear et al., 2015). Neuroscientists explore how brain structures influence behavior, how neural circuits form, and how changes in the brain correspond with learning or injury.
The Endocrine System and Its Functions
The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce hormones, which are chemical messengers regulating numerous bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction (Guyton & Hall, 2006). Hormones like cortisol and adrenaline are pivotal during stress responses. The pituitary gland, often termed the "master gland," plays a critical role in regulating other endocrine glands and is responsible for releasing hormones that influence growth, metabolism, and stress responses (Fisher et al., 2012).
Genotype vs. Phenotype
Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an individual; it is the set of genes inherited from their parents (Rosenberg & Nordahl, 1996). In contrast, phenotype describes the observable traits or characteristics of an individual, which are influenced by both genetic factors and the environment. For example, two individuals may have the same genotype for a particular trait, but different phenotypes may emerge due to differences in their environments or experiences.
Erikson's Stages of Development in TV Characters
To explore Erik Erikson’s psychosocial stages, I watched a series of television show characters that span various life stages:
1. Childhood (Stage 1 - Trust vs. Mistrust): In "The Simpsons," Maggie Simpson embodies this stage, showcasing a child’s trust in her caregivers, albeit humorously. Her interactions highlight the formation of basic trust essential for her emotional development.
2. Adolescence (Stage 5 - Identity vs. Role Confusion): In "Euphoria," Rue Bennett faces identity struggles, grappling with addiction and societal pressures. Her character reflects the tumult inherent in adolescence as she seeks to understand herself amidst chaos.
3. Young Adulthood (Stage 6 - Intimacy vs. Isolation): In "Friends," Ross Geller pursues romantic relationships throughout the series, highlighting the tensions of intimacy and the question of whether he can form meaningful connections.
4. Middle Adulthood (Stage 7 - Generativity vs. Stagnation): In "The Office," Michael Scott often demonstrates the quest for generativity through leadership and parenting-like roles toward his employees, balancing personal ambitions with caring for others.
Through exploration of these characters, we see how their struggles correspond with Erikson's stages and showcase the complexities of human development.
Conclusion
Engaging with the intricacies of the human brain, personality, and development reveals not only how interconnected our biological and psychological landscapes are but also the diverse experiences shaping our lives. Understanding these elements through hypothetical scenarios, television characters, and psychological theories can enrich our appreciation of human nature and behavior.
References
1. Bear, M. F., Connors, B. W., & Paradiso, M. A. (2015). Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain.
2. Cannon, W. B. (1932). The Wisdom of the Body.
3. DeYoung, C. G. (2006). Personality, Intelligence, and Executive Functions. Personality and Individual Differences, 40(4), 859-871.
4. Fisher, B. E., et al. (2012). The Role of the Human Pituitary in Reproductive Endocrinology. Endocrine Reviews, 33(3), 423-454.
5. Gazzaniga, M. (2000). CerebralSpecialization and Interhemispheric Communication: Does It Exist? Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 24(5), 669-689.
6. Guyton, A. C., & Hall, J. E. (2006). Textbook of Medical Physiology.
7. LeDoux, J. (2014). The Emotional Brain: The Mysterious Underpinnings of Emotional Life.
8. Roberts, B. W., et al. (2006). Development of Character and Personality in Adulthood. Handbook of Adult Development & Aging.
9. Rosenberg, N. J., & Nordahl, T. (1996). Genetics and the Individual. Genetics and the Social Context.
10. Schmeichel, B. J., et al. (2004). The Role of Self-Regulation in the Emotional Responses to Public Speaking. Emotion, 4(2), 123-134.