A-Level Psychology: Biopsychology Revision

Biopsychology is a core part of A-Level Psychology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

CNSCentral nervous system — brain and spinal cord.

PNSPeripheral nervous system — somatic + autonomic.

SympatheticANS branch mobilising fight-or-flight.

ParasympatheticANS branch promoting rest-and-digest.

Endocrine SystemNetwork of glands releasing hormones into blood.

AdrenalineHormone from adrenal medulla driving acute stress response.

LocalisationSpecific brain areas have specific functions.

Broca's AreaLeft frontal lobe area for speech production.

Wernicke's AreaLeft temporal lobe area for speech comprehension.

Motor CortexFrontal strip controlling voluntary movement.

LateralisationHemispheres specialise (e.g. language usually left).

Corpus CallosumFibre bridge linking the two hemispheres.

PlasticityBrain's ability to change physically with experience.

Synaptic PruningRemoval of unused synaptic connections during development.

Common mistakes to avoid

Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:

How do SSRIs help with OCD?✗ They directly produce more serotonin in the brain. ✓ They prevent reabsorption of serotonin, increasing its availability in the synapse.

Which side of the body does the left hemisphere control?✗ The left (same) side. ✓ The right (opposite/contralateral) side.

Practise Biopsychology — free games

Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:

▶ Two Truths, One Lie ▶ Reveal Race ▶ Connections Grid ▶ Falling Words ▶ Word Web

See all 17 games in the Subjects Arcade →

Biopsychology

Key concepts

Common mistakes to avoid

Practise Biopsychology — free games

More A-Level Psychology topics