THE INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT AND BEHAVIOR
Abstract
In this paper the importance of constancy in the internal environment for the stability and well being of the organism as a whole and the cerebral cortex in particular has been emphasized. Numerous illustrations were cited from studies at high altitude to demonstrate the basic rôle of oxygen in neural activity. The way in which psychological functions can be altered by changes in the oxygen tension was illustrated by reference to specific experiments in neuro-muscular control, memory and light sensitivity. The results showed in striking fashion how sensitive psycho-physiological processes are to oxygen changes in the internal environment. The application of these observations and experimental findings were then discussed in relation to certain mental disorders. By placing these familiar psychological and psychiatric problems in this new setting they are seen in broader perspective for further study.
Access content
To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.- Personal login
- Institutional Login
- Sign in via OpenAthens
- Register for access
-
Please login/register if you wish to pair your device and check access availability.
Not a subscriber?
PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5 library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources. This all-in-one virtual library provides psychiatrists and mental health professionals with key resources for diagnosis, treatment, research, and professional development.
Need more help? PsychiatryOnline Customer Service may be reached by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800-368-5777 (in the U.S.) or 703-907-7322 (outside the U.S.).