Course description

The aim of the lecture series is to give students a general overview of the physiological background of animal and human behavior, and of the science of behavioral physiology. The course consist of a series of small-group seminar-style lectures.

The first lecture of the course introduces the basic concepts of the subject, discussing the relationships between behavior, physiology, and the animal’s environment. This is followed by an overview of the neurophysiological and then the hormonal background of behavior. Understanding the brain’s reward systems and the neural basis of so-called “motivation” is essential to grasp the processes of behavior; following this, we will discuss the effects of stress originating from the external environment on the animal. Behavior takes place not only on an individual level but also socially — the sixth lecture will explore the role of bonding, isolation, and communication in the animal world. The final lecture will present the relationship between circadian rhythms (daily rhythms, seasonality) and behavior.

Due to the structure of the course, active participation in the classes is recommended for successful completion. At the end of the course, students will demonstrate their knowledge in the form of a written report.

Prequisite: Veterinary Physiology 2

Course syllabus: (weekly breakdown of topics)