What does physiological psychology study?

Physiological psychology focuses on understanding how physiological processes, including genetics and biology, influence mental processes and behavior. This field encompasses the study of the brain, nervous system, and other bodily systems as they relate to psychological functions. By examining these connections, researchers can better understand how physical factors like neurotransmitter levels, hormonal changes, or structural brain abnormalities impact thoughts, emotions, and actions.

The other options, while related to fields within psychology, do not encapsulate the essence of physiological psychology. The first option discusses the interplay between behavior and societal norms, which is more aligned with social psychology. The third option emphasizes cognitive processes, indicating a focus on cognitive psychology rather than physiological influences. The last option narrows the scope to emotional disorders in neuroscience, which is a more specific aspect of the broader field and doesn't represent the comprehensive study of physiology in psychology.