Psychology Concepts and Terminology

Flashcards covering key concepts and terminology relevant to psychology.

Neurotransmitter (NT)

Chemicals released in the synaptic gap, received by neurons; can be excitatory or inhibitory.

Action Potential (AP)

An electrical charge that travels down the axon triggered by depolarization of the neuron.

All or Nothing Principle

A principle stating that a neuron fires completely or not at all when threshold is reached.

Depolarization

The process by which the charge of a neuron switches from negative to positive, initiating an action potential.

GABA

The major inhibitory neurotransmitter that decreases the likelihood of an action potential in the receiving neuron.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, sleep, and emotional stability; low levels are associated with depression.

Placebo Effect

An observed effect on behavior that is caused by the expectation of treatment rather than the treatment itself.

Cortisol

A hormone involved in stress response, regulating various processes in the body, including metabolism and immune response.

Circadian Rhythms

The 24-hour biological cycle that regulates sleep and wakefulness as well as bodily functions.

REM Sleep

Rapid eye movement sleep, characterized by dreams and increased brain activity, often referred to as paradoxical sleep.

Hawthorne Effect

The phenomenon where individuals modify an aspect of their behavior in response to their awareness of being observed.

Qualitative Data

Descriptive data that conveys information about qualities or characteristics; not numerical.

Quantitative Data

Numerical data that can be measured and expressed; ideal for statistical analysis.

Operational Definition

A clear and precise description of how variables are measured, allowing for replication of studies.

Random Sample

A sampling method where every individual has an equal chance of being selected, increasing generalizability.

Long-term Memory

Type of memory capable of storing information indefinitely, including implicit and explicit memories.

Sensory Adaptation

The diminished sensitivity to a stimulus after prolonged exposure; a decrease in sensory signal response.

Consolidation

The process by which memories become stable in the brain over time.