Your textbook emphasizes that biology and behavior form reciprocal relationships. We are often very aware of situations in which our biology affects our behavior, such as when we take a medication and notice its results. We are somewhat less aware of situations in which our behavior affects our biology. Describe one such situation. Discuss the importance of recognizing the ability of our behavior to influence important biological functions.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Typical answers might repeat the example from the textbook (ghrelin levels are affected by what you think about your milkshake). Other examples include meditation and the effects on heartrate, the effects of losing a competition on testosterone, and so forth. Recognizing the affects of behavior on biology is important for understanding key concepts such as the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression and placebo effects.