PSYC 70770: Basic Concepts in Psychology

Explore the essential role of the primary visual cortex, Area V1, in processing our visual world. Understand its location in the occipital lobe and its interactions with structures like the thalamus. Uncover the intricate stages that make vision possible.

This video explores basic biopsychology, unraveling the complex connections between the brain, behavior, and sensory perception. It examines key brain regions, neurotransmitters, and hormones that govern human thoughts and emotions

Discover how Signal Detection Theory helps in identifying signals in a cluttered setting. This video unpacks its four key outcomes—Hit, Miss, False Alarm, and Correct Rejection—and explores its relevance in various perception processes like vision, smell, and absolute thresholds.

Explore the intriguing concept of altruism and its manifestations in the animal kingdom. Understand how Kin Selection, rooted in evolutionary biology, provides a compelling explanation for selfless behaviors that seemingly benefit others more than oneself.

Explore the divisions of the nervous system and discover which one is responsible for the startle response. Learn about the roles of the parasympathetic, central, somatic, sympathetic, and autonomic systems in our body's functioning.

Explore Edward Thorndike's foundational Law of Effect, illustrating how favorable consequences influence behavior repetition. Contrast this principle with other behavioral concepts like operant conditioning and shaping for a complete understanding.