Psychology Concepts

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and definitions related to psychology and concepts of mental health.

Working Memory

A unique system that allows the brain to access stored information to use in specific activities.

Forebrain

The part of the brain responsible for intellectual activity and consciousness including the cerebrum, thalamus, hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and corpus callosum.

Hindbrain

Responsible for instinctive, autonomic behavior and survival functions including the cerebellum, medulla, pons, and reticular activating system.

Creative Thinking

An expansive way of driving thoughts to explore possibilities and think outside the box.

Associative Thinking

A mental technique that explores an idea by considering all possible areas related to the topic for fresh insights.

Mind-Mapping

A creative method of exploring ideas through graphic or visual presentations that use words, images, numbers, colors, and spatial awareness.

Mood Swings

Sudden changes in emotions without a clear reason, shifting from one emotional state to another.

Anxiety Disorder

A class of disorders marked by extreme worry and apprehension, often in anticipation of fearful situations.

Low Self-Esteem

A condition where a person lacks confidence and often feels incompetent, unloved, or inadequate.

Bulimia Nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by cycles of bingeing and purging to avoid weight gain.

Anorexia Nervosa

An eating disorder where individuals keep their weight as low as possible due to a distorted perception of body image.

Substance Abuse

Harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances that can affect the central nervous system and change mood and behavior.

Eustress

Positive stress that enhances alertness, focus, and performance under pressure.

Distress

Negative stress that builds tension and can lead to adverse effects on health.

Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome

A model explaining the body's three-phase response to stress: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Primary Appraisal

The initial assessment of the meaning or importance of a stressor at the onset of a stressful event.

Secondary Appraisal

The evaluation of one's ability to cope with a stressful situation.