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Chemicals

Definition

Chemicals in the context of psychology refer to substances in the body, such as hormones and neurotransmitters, that play a role in behavior and mental processes. They are involved in transmitting signals between neurons, regulating mood, and influencing various physiological functions.

Analogy

Think of chemicals as messengers in your body's communication system. Just like how text messages or emails deliver information from one person to another, chemicals deliver messages between different parts of your body. They can affect how you feel, think, and behave.

Related terms

Neurons: These are specialized cells in the nervous system that transmit information using electrical signals and chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.

Hormones: Chemical substances produced by glands in the endocrine system that regulate various bodily functions including growth, metabolism, reproduction, and emotions.

Neurotransmitters: Chemical messengers released by neurons to transmit signals across synapses (gaps) between neurons.