This course focuses on introducing the fundamental principles of brain structures and their associated functions, and the biological basis of behaviour. Topics include anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, genetic influences on behaviour, the biological bases of emotional behaviour (e.g., anxiety & stress), and the study of psychological disorders (e.g., alcoholism, drug abuse, & depression).

CILO-1: Describe gene expression, the interplay of genetic and environmental influences on behaviour. CILO-2: Explain behaviour from the evolutionary perspective. CILO-3: Depict the generation of action potential and chemical events at the synapses. CILO-4: Describe how psychoactive drugs work at the synapses and the development of substance dependence/abuse. CILO-5: Differentiate theories of emotion and apply them in explaining daily life experiences. CILO-6: Describe the biological basis of psychological and emotional disorders and how the psychiatric drugs work. CILO-7: Identify the brain anatomy, the associated distinctive functions and the lateralization of functions. CILO-8: Describe the mechanisms involved in the development of brain and the plasticity of brain after damages. CILO-9: Explain the biological and physiological bases of the effects of stress on health.