PSYC 2330 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Supernormal Stimulus, Reflex Arc, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

• School: University of Guelph
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 2330
• Professor: Francesco Leri

Document Summary

Afferent neuron a neuron that transmits messages from sense organs to the central nervous system; also called a sensory neuron. Efferent neuron a neuron that transmits impulses to muscles; also called a motor neuron. Interneuron a neuron in the spinal cord that transmits impulses from afferent (or sensory) to efferent (or motor) neurons. Consummatory behaviour behaviour that serves to bring a natural sequence of behaviour to consummation or completion. Consummatory responses usually species-typical model action patterns: food handling mode last component of feeding behaviour sequence, in which organism handles and consumes food. Fatigue temporary decrease in behaviour caused by repeated/excessive use of muscles involved. (see figure below) Habituation effect progressive decrease in vigor of elicited behaviour that may occur with repeated presentations of eliciting stimulus. Habituation process neural mechanism activated by repetitions of stimulus that reduces magnitude of responses elicited by that stimulus.