AP PSYCH positive psych

Stress

The process by which we perceive and respond to challenging or threatening events (stressors).

Eustress

Positive stress that motivates and enhances performance.

Distress

Negative stress that can be overwhelming and harmful.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

A three-phase response to stress including Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion.

Alarm Phase

Initial reaction to stress; involves fight, flight, or freeze response.

Resistance Phase

The phase where the body attempts to adapt to stress.

Exhaustion Phase

Prolonged stress leads to depletion of resources and potential health issues.

Physical Effects of Stress

Increased heart rate, immune suppression, and hypertension.

Mental Effects of Stress

Anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

Behavioral Effects of Stress

Poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, and substance use.

Problem-Focused Coping

Directly addressing the stressor (e.g., making a study plan).

Emotion-Focused Coping

Managing emotional response (e.g., meditation, exercise).

Positive Psychology

The scientific study of human strengths and what makes life meaningful.

Key Areas of Positive Psychology

Positive emotions, resilience, and psychological well-being.

Positive Objective Experiences

A situation or event that is enjoyable or beneficial based on factual data.

Positive Subjective Experiences

Valued feelings like contentment and happiness, focusing on personal well-being.

Connection in Well-Being

People with strong social connections often report higher well-being.

Signature Strengths and Virtues

Identifying and applying personal strengths enhances life satisfaction.

Wisdom (Virtue)

Character strengths including creativity, curiosity, and love of learning.

Courage (Virtue)

Character strengths including bravery, persistence, and integrity.

Humanity (Virtue)

Character strengths including kindness and social intelligence.

Justice (Virtue)

Character strengths including fairness, leadership, and teamwork.

Temperance (Virtue)

Character strengths including self-regulation and humility.

Transcendence (Virtue)

Character strengths including gratitude and spirituality.

Role of Gratitude in Mental Health

Increases happiness, reduces stress, and improves relationships.

Gratitude Practices

Examples include gratitude journaling and expressing appreciation.

Resilience

The ability to bounce back from adversity.

Building Resilience

Includes having a strong support system, positive mindset, and coping strategies.

Tend-and-Befriend Response

An alternative to fight-or-flight where individuals seek social support.