Unit 5 Vocab Part 1

Stress

The response of the body and mind to challenges or demands, characterized by physical, emotional, and mental reactions.

Stressors

Events or conditions that trigger stress by challenging an individual's ability to cope or adjust.

Eustress

Positive stress that enhances motivation, performance, and emotional well-being.

Distress

Negative stress that decreases motivation, impairs performance, and leads to emotional and physical problems.

Daily Hassles

Minor irritations that occur regularly.

Significant Life Changes

Major events that require adaptation.

Catastrophes

Unpredictable, large-scale events that cause widespread stress.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Stressful or traumatic events in childhood that can have long-lasting effects on health and well-being throughout a person's life.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

Three-stage response to stress that includes alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Alarm Reaction Phase

The initial stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome, reacting to a stressor with a 'fight-or-flight' response.

Fight-Flight-Freeze Response

A physiological reaction to perceived threats that prepares the body to fight, flee, or freeze.

Resistance Phase

The second stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome, where the body maintains heightened alertness and stress hormone levels.

Exhaustion Phase

The final stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome, where the body's resources are depleted after prolonged stress.

Tend-and-Befriend Theory

Behavioral reaction to stress involving nurturing activities and seeking social support.

Problem-Focused Coping

Directly managing or solving the source of stress to reduce its impact.

Emotion-Focused Coping

Managing the emotional response to stress rather than changing the stressful situation itself.

Positive Psychology

The scientific study of human flourishing to help individuals and communities thrive.

Subjective Well-Being

Self-perceived happiness or satisfaction with life.

Resilience

The ability to adapt and recover quickly from difficulties, maintaining psychological well-being.

Posttraumatic Growth

Positive psychological changes resulting from struggling with challenging life circumstances.

Positive Emotions

Feelings that foster enjoyment, interest, and contentment, contributing to overall well-being.

Gratitude

The appreciation of valuable and meaningful aspects of life, enhancing well-being.

Signature Strengths & Virtues

Core characteristics that a person possesses, contributing to authentic and engaged living.

Wisdom

The ability to make sound decisions based on understanding and experience.

Courage

The mental or moral strength to persevere and withstand fear or difficulty.

Humanity

The quality of being compassionate, empathetic, and supportive towards others.

Justice

A commitment to fairness and advocating for the rights of others.

Temperance

Self-regulation and control over excesses, promoting balance and moderation.

Transcendence

The ability to connect to the larger universe and find meaning beyond oneself.