What Is Physiological Psychology?
Physiological Psychology is the scientific study of how the brain, nervous system, hormones, and body chemistryinfluence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It bridges biology and psychology, exploring how electrical impulses and chemical signals in the body shape our mental and emotional life.
In simple terms, it studies how the mind works through the body — showing that every feeling or thought has a physical root inside the nervous system.
How the Subconscious Mind Fits In
The subconscious mind represents the vast mental activity happening below conscious awareness — automatic habits, emotional memories, and intuitive responses. Physiological Psychology explains how these subconscious processes are supported and expressed through the brain’s biological systems.
For instance, when a person feels anxious without knowing why, the amygdala (the emotional center of the brain) may be reactivating a stored fear memory. This subconscious reaction triggers the autonomic nervous system, raising heart rate and stress hormones like cortisol — even before the conscious mind recognises the reason.
The Biological Basis of the Subconscious
Key brain areas that support subconscious activity include:
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Amygdala – stores emotional memories and triggers automatic reactions.
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Hippocampus – connects current experiences with past ones.
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Basal Ganglia – controls habitual and repetitive behaviors.
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Hypothalamus – translates emotions into physiological responses like hunger, arousal, or tension.
Through these systems, subconscious emotions can silently influence our breathing patterns, posture, immune responses, and even decision-making.
Mind–Body Communication
Physiological Psychology reveals a continuous two-way communication between the body and the subconscious mind. Thoughts and beliefs can alter neurotransmitters and hormones, while body sensations can send emotional signals back to the brain.
This explains why techniques such as hypnotherapy, breathwork, and biofeedback work — they access the subconscious through the body, promoting emotional balance and healing.
Conclusion
Physiological Psychology provides a bridge between neuroscience and the subconscious mind. It shows that emotional healing is not only a mental process but also a biological reprogramming. By understanding this connection, therapists can help clients achieve lasting change through both mind and body integration