So far, you have been introduced to the study of psychopharmacology and are becoming familiar with psychotropic medications. You have learned about biological basics of brain behavior, how drugs work on the body, and how the body interacts with drugs. This activity gives you an opportunity to demonstrate this knowledge through concept mapping.
After reviewing the material from Week 2, create a concept map of the workings of neurons and neurotransmitters. Your concept map needs to provide a holistic view of the structure, functions, and processes involved. Your concept map should include the following:
- Draw and label a neuron as the central concept.
- For each of the five major neurotransmitters please provide a brief description (2-3 sentences) of the major functions and roles of each neurotransmitter.
- Acetylcholine (ACh)
- Dopamine (DA)
- Norepinephrine (NE)
- Serotonin (5-HT)
- GABA
(You may include additional neurotransmitters if you believe they are relevant to your concept map).
- Then, briefly define, connect, and give examples of the terms and concepts outlined below in a written paragraph following your diagram.
- Pharmacokinetics
- Pharmacodynamics
- Briefly address the relationships between drug dosage and behavioral response. Include sources of individual differences in drug action such as sex, age, physical wellness, race, and ethnicity.
Support your assignment with at least two scholarly resources. In addition to these specified resources, other appropriate scholarly resources, including older articles, may be included.
Requirements
- Length: 2-3 pages, not including title and reference page.
- References: Include 2 scholarly resources.