ap psych healthy psychology

health psychology

the study of how psychological, behavioral, and cultural factors contribute to physical health and illness.

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 (motivating)

positive stress that enhances motivation, performance, and emotional well-being

distress (debilitating)

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, describing how the body reacts and adapts to stress over time.

alarm reaction phase

the initial stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome, where the body reacts to a stressor with a "fight-or-flight" response, activating stress hormones and physiological changes.

fight flight freeze response

a physiological reaction to perceived threats that prepares the body to fight, flee, or freeze to enhance survival.

resistance phase

the second stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome, where the body tries to adapt and cope with a stressor, maintaining 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, leading to decreased stress tolerance and potential health issues.

tend and befriend theory

behavioral reaction to stress that involves nurturing activities to protect oneself and one's offspring, and seeking social support to reduce stress.

problem focused coping

involves 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 to thrive.

subjective well being

self-perceived happiness or satisfaction with life.

resilience

the ability to adapt and recover quickly from difficulties or change, maintaining psychological well-being in the face of adversity.

posttraumatic growth

positive psychological changes experienced as a result of struggling with highly challenging life circumstances, leading to a higher level of personal or interpersonal functioning

positive emotions

feelings that foster enjoyment, interest, and contentment, and contribute to overall well-being and happiness.

gratitude

the appreciation of what is valuable and meaningful to oneself, enhancing overall well-being by fostering positive feelings and relationships.

signature strengths and virtues

core characteristics that a person naturally possesses and expresses, which contribute to fulfilling, authentic, and engaged living.

wisdom

the ability to make sound decisions based on deep understanding and experience, contributing to effective problem-solving and interpersonal relationships.

courage

the mental or moral strength to persevere and withstand fear or difficulty, enabling individuals to face challenges and act in accordance with their values despite potential risks.

humanity

the quality of being compassionate, empathetic, and supportive towards others, fostering positive interpersonal relationships and social well-being.

justice

a commitment to fairness, equity, and advocating for the rights of others, which helps maintain healthy community and societal relationships.

temperance

self-regulation and control over excesses and impulses, promoting balance and moderation in personal behavior and relationships.

transcendence

the ability to connect to the larger universe and find meaning beyond oneself, often through appreciation of beauty, gratitude, hope, humor, and spirituality.