Class Biological Foundations of Behavior

This curricular unit (UC) aims to give the biological bases directly involved in behavior, so that students understand its relevance and applicability in studies of psychology. For this, basic notions of cell biology and genetics will be given, for better understanding basic neurophysiology and neurosciences. Next, behavioral interactions will be analysed at the human body level, addressing in greater detail the nervous and endocrine systems, focusing on the particularities underlying the functioning of neuronal cells and synaptic transmission mechanisms. All syllabus are covered from an evolutionary perspective, which will allow students to better integrate future knowledge in the fields of ethology.

Not applicable

Unit 1: Biological Basis of Behavior (Introduction) Evolution and Natural Selection Basics Nature versus Nurture The nervous system The endocrine system Unit 2: The Cell - Basic Life Unit Structural and functional organization of eukaryotic cell Biological membranes and substance transfer between cell and medium Structure and function of glial neurons and cells Neuronal activity, synapses, and neurotransmitters Unit 3: Molecular Biology and Genetics DNA, RNA and protein synthesis Cell cycle: meiosis and mitosis Hereditary transmission mechanisms: genotype, phenotype Mendelian Genetics Human genetic disorders: implications in psychology. Epigenetics

The classes aim to be highly interactive, with teachers encouraging students collaboration. These sessions will combine theoretical and theoretical-practical elements, being the evaluation methods mixed. During theoretical-practical classes, with mandatory attendance, the content covered in theoretical sessions will be reinforced through experimental observations and practical case analyses, enhancing learning through various activities.

Azevedo, C. & Sunkel, C.E. (2012). Biologia Celular e Molecular, 5ª ed. Lidel, Lisboa. Brandão, M. L. (2004). As bases biológicas do comportamento: introdução à neurociência. Editora Pedagógica e Universitária, São Paulo. Gilbert, S. F. & Barresi, M. J. F. (2016). Developmental Biology, 10th ed. Sinauer Associates, Inc., Massachusetts.