In this video I provide a basic introduction to twin studies and heritability scores. I explain how a heritability score tells us about the role of genes in explaining variance in a trait. I also discuss some common errors and … Read More
Introduction to Genetics and Shared Genes
In this video I provide a basic introduction to genetics and explain genes, genomes, DNA, chromosomes, and genetic relatedness of parents, offspring, siblings, and identical and fraternal twins. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel to see future videos! Have … Read More
Split Brains: What Happens When You Sever the Corpus Callosum?
In this video I cover research by Roger Sperry and Michael Gazzaniga on split brain patients who have had the corpus callosum severed. I explain some hemispheric specializations such as speech production and facial recognition as well as how visual … Read More
Parts of the Brain: Forebrain – Cerebral Cortex
In this video I continue explaining parts of the brain and focus on the cerebral cortex. The cortex is the thin, wrinkled, outer covering of the brain and the wrinkles and folds create gyri, sulci, and fissures. The cortex is … Read More
Parts of the Brain: Midbrain Structures
In this video I continue covering parts of the brain, explaining regions of the midbrain including the tegmentum, the substantia nigra, and the tectum. I also discuss the limitations of using 2D images when learning about brain structures, the use … Read More
Parts of the Brain: Hindbrain Structures
In this video I explain the main regions of the brain: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, as well as the difference between the “old” and “new” brain in evolutionary terms. Then the location and function of four main areas of … Read More
Brain Scanning and Imaging Techniques
In this video I briefly explain how information can be collected about the structure and function of a living brain using scanning and imaging techniques including EEG, CAT scan, PET scan, MRI, fMRI, and DTI. Don’t forget to subscribe to … Read More
Early Ways of Studying the Brain
In this video I discuss early approaches to studying the brain by looking at cases of brain damage and attempting to connect areas of damage to deficits or changes in behavior. The case of Phineas Gage is considered, as well … Read More
Organization of the Nervous System
In this video I describe the organization of the nervous system, which includes the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, which is then divided into the somatic and autonomic divisions. Next I discuss the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems … Read More
Drugs and Neurotransmitters: Agonist or Antagonist?
In this video I discuss some ways that drugs can influence the functioning of neurotransmitters by binding to receptors on postsynaptic neurons. I explain the difference between agonist drugs which increase effects of a neurotransmitter and antagonist drugs which reduce … Read More