Behavioral Neuroscience

Behavioral neuroscience, also known as biological psychology, biopsychology, or psychobiology is the application of the principles of biology to the study of physiological, genetic, and developmental mechanisms of behavior in humans and other animals. It typically examines the neural, hormonal, genetic, and cognitive bases of behavior and the neurobiological and physiological processes that mediate the expression of behavior. Behavioral neuroscience has become an important bridge between the variety of disciplines which contribute to the understanding of the brain and behavior of both humans and animals. The main areas of study in behavioral neuroscience include the roles of the brain, hormones, and behavior in governing interactions between members of a species (social behavior); the role of behavior in learning and memory; the effects of the environment on behavior and perception; and the nature of reward and reinforcement as it relates to motivation and choice. In addition, research in this field examines how the genetic information that shapes species- and context-specific behavior can be modified, and how gene-behavior relationships can be studied in humans and animals. Behavioral neuroscience also considers the impacts of behavior on health and well-being. Understanding the brain has been among the greatest challenges for human kind, and over the years behavioral neuroscience has made great strides in advancing our understanding. By combining and applying knowledge from multiple scientific fields such as psychology, neuroscience, endocrinology, genetics, and ethology, researchers are now able to investigate how and why humans and other animals act the way they do. This field has enabled the development of treatments, therapies, and interventions for a variety of behavioral and mental health challenges. Additionally, behavioral neuroscience research has served to further our understanding of the evolutionary roots of human behavior, as well as provide insights for the development of innovative technological advancements. As the field continues to expand, the discoveries made will continue to shape our understanding of behavior and ultimately improve the lives of humans and other animals.