Theories Biological Psychology The Psychology of the Brain and Behavior By Kendra Cherry Kendra Cherry Facebook Twitter Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author and educational consultant focused on helping students learn about psychology. Learn about our editorial process Updated on August 12, 2021 Medically reviewed Verywell Mind articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and mental healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Huma Sheikh, MD Medically reviewed by Huma Sheikh, MD Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Huma Sheikh, MD, is a board-certified neurologist, specializing in migraine and stroke, and affiliated with Mount Sinai of New York. Learn about our Medical Review Board Print Hero Images / Getty Images Table of Contents View All Table of Contents The Basics The Neuron Neuron Anatomy Neurotransmitters Communication Systems The Brain Every year, millions of people are affected by disorders of the brain and nervous system including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and traumatic brain injuries. These illnesses and injuries highlight the importance of the biological bases for our behavior. Exploring some of the basics of biological psychology means looking into the biological processes that play a role in how we think, feel, react and behave. The Basics The area of psychology that seeks to understand how the brain affects behavior is known as biopsychology, although you may also hear this subject referred to as psychobiology or behavioral neuroscience. Understanding the Field of Biopsychology The Neuron Neurons are the basic building blocks of life. These highly specialized cells are responsible for receiving and transmitting information from one part of the body to another. What Is a Neuron? Neuron Anatomy In order to better understand how a neuron works to transmit information throughout the body, it is essential to know the different parts of a neuron. Overview of the Structure of a Neuron Neurotransmitters You've seen how a cell is structured and how nerve impulses are propagated down the cell, but how does this information travel from one cell to the next? Understanding the Role of Neurotransmitters Communication Systems Neurons make up only a small part of the human body's complex communication system. The nervous system is composed of two main parts: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. Additionally, the endocrine system plays an important role in communication. How Nervous and Endocrine Systems Work The Brain Technological advances in recent years have allowed scientists to study the human brain in ways that were not possible in the past. A Guide to the Anatomy of the Brain Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Ever wonder what your personality type means? Sign up to find out more in our Healthy Mind newsletter. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit