Physiological Psychology: Homework Answers and Analysis of Concepts

This document presents a solution to a Physiological Psychology homework assignment, addressing key concepts in the field. The assignment explores the concept of action loops, detailing the nervous system's role in modulating actions through sensory feedback and evaluation. It delves into the hierarchical structure of action loops, the influence of the cerebral cortex on cognition, and the role of other brain structures like the basal ganglia and cerebellum. The document analyzes fMRI research, the impact of genetics and experience on cortical development, and the plasticity of the cerebral cortex. Finally, it discusses the dynamic core hypothesis of consciousness, supporting the monistic view of mind and body. The assignment is supported by references to relevant literature, including works by Jeeves and Brown, and Kalat. This resource is available on Desklib, a platform that provides students with AI-based study tools, past papers, and solved assignments.

Running head: PHYSIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY
PHYSIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Name of the student:
Name of the university:
Author note:

1PHYSIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Table of Contents
Answer 1..........................................................................................................................................2
Answer 2..........................................................................................................................................2
Answer 3..........................................................................................................................................2
Answer 4..........................................................................................................................................2
Answer 5..........................................................................................................................................3
Answer 6..........................................................................................................................................3
Answer 7..........................................................................................................................................3
Answer 8..........................................................................................................................................4
Answer 9..........................................................................................................................................4

2PHYSIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Answer 1
According to Jeeves and brown (2009), action loops are referred as the nervous system as its
whole. With the help of sensory system the nervous system modulates actions in the world. It
monitors action outcomes, compare actual outcomes with the intended outcomes and based
on these responses, it makes adjustments for ongoing actions. The entire process is in a
constant cycle that follows action-feedback-evaluation-action loop.
Answer 2
Jeeves and Browns suggests that these structures construct an action loop hierarchy where
the lower-level loops are modulated and nested by the higher level of loops. Through nesting
and modulating by higher-level loops the action loops present within the spinal cord are
controlled. It involves the areas of the brain stem when the brain systems are within control
loops which also involves midbrain stem.
Answer 3
According to Jeeves and Browns, the highest levels of thoughts ride on the back of cortical-
sensory and motor systems by operating them offline. The highest levels of actions loops in
off-line simulations of physical events are performed by the highest levels of human
cognition. This occurs through offline interaction between cortical-motor and frontal cortex.

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Answer 4
The control hierarchy within a hierarchical model of both the brain and cerebral cortex is
supplemented by process in other structures and systems, basal ganglia and cerebellum,
hippocampus, amygdala and limbic cortex. The psychological structure they regulate are
emotions, fear, memory and motor.
Answer 5
The fMRI research has been found supporting the localizationist view however it has only
revealed focal areas of activity are the representation of the areas that are more active during
a particular mental state of interest to investigators when compared to some other state not
interest.
Answer 6
The wrinkled surface of the cerebral cortex varies person to person, the location of the major
cortical areas differs largely between persons. Therefore, structures such as visual cortex,
motor cortex and language processing areas are in the same location in approximately for all
persons. This suggests that the function of the cerebral cortex is strongly influenced by
genetics.
Answer 7
Human brains are born with a cerebral cortex initially and it takes longer time to physically
develop completely. It does not reach full adult maturity with respect to cortical thickness or

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axon myelinization till second decades. And during the first two to three year it is only
experiences and learning that makes the brain not genetic.
Answer 8
Since the cerebral cortex reach the adult level of complexity even when the changes does not
end with childhood and adolescence the functional network of the cortex remain plastic. New
experiences and learning incorporate in new cells. Changes in synaptic efficiency are not
limited to cerebral cortex however the not all of the brain is susceptible to modification of its
functioning (Kalat, 2011).
Answer 9
Dynamic core hypothesis is a model of consciousness that clarifies the difference between
the conscious control of behavior and behaviors that are automatic and unconscious. Jeeves
and Brown support monism of mind and body as according to them, it is not just having a
cerebral cortex that forms humanness but also the organization of the cerebral cortex.

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References:
Jeeves, M., & Warren Jr, B. (2009). Neuroscience, psychology, and religion: Illusions, delusions,
and realities about human nature. Templeton Foundation Press. ISBN-13: 978-
1599471471
Kalat, James W. (2011). Biological Psychology (11h edition). Thompson Wadsworth: Belmont,
CA. ISBN: ISBN-13: 978-1-111-83100-4