Thalamus in AP Psychology

Definition

The thalamus is located above the brainstem, between the cerebral cortex and midbrain. It serves as a relay station, transmitting sensory information to appropriate areas of the cerebral cortex.

Related terms

Cerebral Cortex:

This is like main office where all sorted mails (sensory information) from Thalamus are sent for further processing.

Sensory Neurons: These neurons carry signals from outer parts of your body into central nervous system just like mail carriers delivering letters to post office (Thalamus).

Limbic System:

This includes thalamus and some other structures involved in many of our emotions and motivations, particularly those that are related to survival such as fear and anger.