AP Psych Unit 5: Mental and Physical Health

Aaron Beck

an American psychiatrist known for his development of cognitive therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as his cognitive theory of depression, which emphasizes the role of negative thinking patterns in the development and maintenance of depression.

active listening

a communication technique used in therapy and counseling that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and empathizing with what the speaker is saying, through verbal and nonverbal cues, to facilitate deeper understanding and rapport.

acute schizophrenia

a subtype of schizophrenia characterized by sudden onset of psychotic symptoms, often accompanied by emotional turmoil, confusion, or behavioral disturbances, which may require immediate intervention and stabilization.

adaptation-level phenomenon

a cognitive bias in which individuals adapt to and become accustomed to their current level of environmental stimuli or life circumstances, thereby recalibrating their expectations and judgments over time.

aerobic exercise

physical activity that increases heart rate and oxygen consumption over an extended period, such as running, swimming, or cycling, which has been shown to improve physical health, mental well-being, and cognitive function.

agoraphobia

an anxiety disorder characterized by fear or avoidance of situations or places where escape or help may be difficult or embarrassing in the event of a panic attack or other anxiety symptoms, such as crowded spaces, public transportation, or open spaces.

Albert Ellis

an American psychologist known for his development of rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), a form of cognitive therapy that emphasizes identifying and challenging irrational beliefs and cognitive distortions to promote more adaptive thinking and behavior.

anorexia nervosa

an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, leading to severe restriction of food intake, excessive exercise, and distorted body image, often resulting in significant weight loss and medical complications.

anti-social personality disorder

a personality disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others, lack of empathy or remorse, and impulsive or antisocial behavior, often beginning in adolescence or early adulthood.

antianxiety drugs

also known as anxiolytics or benzodiazepines, medications used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders by enhancing the activity of neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has calming effects on the central nervous system.

antidepressants

medications used to treat symptoms of depressive disorders by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine in the brain, which are implicated in mood regulation and emotional well-being.

antipsychotic drugs

also known as neuroleptics, medications used to manage symptoms of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain and reducing hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.

anxiety disorders

a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive, persistent, and uncontrollable feelings of anxiety, fear, or apprehension, often accompanied by physiological symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or sweating.

approach-approach conflict

a type of conflict in which an individual must choose between two desirable or attractive options, each of which has its own benefits and rewards, making the decision difficult.

approach-avoidance conflict

a type of conflict in which an individual is attracted to a goal or outcome (approach) but also experiences negative feelings or consequences associated with pursuing that goal (avoidance), leading to ambivalence and uncertainty.

attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning and development, typically diagnosed in childhood and often persisting into adulthood.

autism spectrum disorders

a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction, restricted interests, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities, varying in severity and presentation.

aversive conditioning

a behavior therapy technique that pairs an undesired behavior with an unpleasant stimulus or consequence, with the aim of reducing or eliminating the behavior through negative reinforcement or punishment.

avoidance-avoidance conflict

a type of conflict in which an individual must choose between two undesirable or aversive options, each of which has its own negative consequences, making the decision challenging.

B. F. Skinner

an American psychologist and behaviorist known for his research on operant conditioning, reinforcement schedules, and the development of behavior therapy techniques such as operant conditioning and token economies.

behavior therapy

a type of psychotherapy that focuses on modifying maladaptive behaviors and promoting adaptive ones through techniques such as reinforcement, punishment, modeling, and exposure, based on principles of learning and conditioning.

biomedical therapy

the use of biological or medical interventions, such as medication, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), or psychosurgery, to treat mental disorders by targeting underlying biological or neurological mechanisms.

bipolar disorder

formerly known as manic-depressive illness, a mood disorder characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania or hypomania, which are periods of elevated mood, energy, and activity.

broaden-and-build theory

a theory proposed by Barbara Fredrickson suggesting that positive emotions broaden individuals' thought-action repertoires and build psychological resources, promoting resilience, creativity, and personal growth over time.

bulimia nervosa

an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating (eating large amounts of food in a short period) followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, fasting, or excessive exercise, to prevent weight gain.

Carl Rogers

an American psychologist and one of the founders of humanistic psychology, known for his development of person-centered therapy and his emphasis on the importance of empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard in therapeutic relationships.

catharsis

a therapeutic process or emotional release through the expression or release of pent-up emotions, such as anger or grief, often facilitated through talking, writing, or artistic expression, which may promote psychological healing and relief.

chronic schizophrenia

a subtype of schizophrenia characterized by persistent and long-term symptoms, impairment, and functional decline, typically with a gradual onset and poor response to treatment.

cognitive therapy

a form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing dysfunctional thought patterns, beliefs, and cognitive distortions that contribute to psychological distress and maladaptive behaviors, through cognitive restructuring and behavioral interventions.

cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

a widely used form of psychotherapy that combines cognitive restructuring (changing negative thought patterns) with behavioral interventions (changing maladaptive behaviors), to treat a variety of mental health conditions.

confirmation bias

a cognitive bias that involves seeking, interpreting, or recalling information in a way that confirms preexisting beliefs or hypotheses, while ignoring or discounting evidence that contradicts them, which can lead to errors in judgment or decision-making.

coping

the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral efforts to manage, reduce, or tolerate stressors, challenges, or adverse circumstances, in order to adapt and maintain psychological well-being.

coronary heart disease

a medical condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, which may result in chest pain (angina), heart attack, or other cardiovascular complications.

counterconditioning

a behavior therapy technique used to replace or counteract maladaptive responses (such as fear or anxiety) with adaptive ones, by pairing the feared or aversive stimulus with a positive or neutral stimulus to change the emotional response.

deinstitutionalization

the movement in mental health care towards discharging individuals from psychiatric hospitals or institutions and providing community-based treatment and support services, aimed at reducing reliance on long-term institutionalization and promoting integration into society.

delusion

a fixed, false belief that is firmly held despite evidence to the contrary, often involving beliefs of persecution, grandiosity, or control, which are characteristic symptoms of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.

depressive disorders

also known as mood disorders, a group of mental health conditions characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest or pleasure in activities, leading to significant impairment in functioning.

diathesis-stress model

a psychological theory proposing that the development of psychological disorders results from an interaction between predisposing vulnerabilities (diatheses) and environmental stressors, such as traumatic events or chronic stress, which can trigger or exacerbate symptoms.

dissociation

a mental process involving a disruption or detachment from one's thoughts, feelings, memories, or identity, often as a defense mechanism against overwhelming stress, trauma, or psychological distress.

dissociative amnesia

a dissociative disorder characterized by partial or total memory loss of important personal information, events, or experiences, often associated with trauma or stress.

dissociative disorders

a group of mental health conditions characterized by disruptions or disturbances in memory, identity, consciousness, or perception, often as a response to severe trauma or stress.

dissociative identity disorder

formerly known as multiple personality disorder, is a dissociative disorder characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities, which may alternate control over an individual's behavior.

Dorthea Dix

an American advocate for mental health reform in the 19th century, known for her efforts to improve conditions for individuals with mental illness and establish humane treatment facilities and asylums.

DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision)

a widely used classification system published by the American Psychiatric Association, providing criteria for diagnosing and classifying mental disorders based on symptoms, behaviors, and clinical presentations.

eclectic approach

involves integrating principles, techniques, and strategies from multiple theoretical perspectives or therapeutic modalities, tailored to meet the individual needs and preferences of clients.

electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

a medical procedure used to treat severe depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions, by inducing controlled seizures in the brain through electrical stimulation, to alleviate symptoms and improve mood.

emotion-focused coping

efforts to regulate or manage the emotional distress associated with stressors, by seeking support, expressing emotions, or reframing the situation in order to reduce negative emotional reactions.

epigenetics

the study of changes in gene expression or activity that are not caused by alterations in the DNA sequence itself, but rather by chemical modifications to the DNA molecule or associated proteins, influenced by environmental factors and experiences.

Ernest Hilgard

an American psychologist known for his research on hypnosis, pain perception, and the development of the neodissociation theory of hypnosis, which posits that hypnosis involves a split in consciousness between the executive control system and hidden observer.

evidence-based practice

the integration of research evidence, clinical expertise, and client preferences and values in making informed decisions about treatment and interventions in mental health care, to ensure the effectiveness and appropriateness of interventions.

exposure therapies

behavior therapy techniques that involve gradual and systematic exposure to feared or anxiety-provoking stimuli or situations, with the goal of reducing fear, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors through habituation and extinction of conditioned responses.

external locus of control

a belief that external forces, chance, or luck primarily determine one's life outcomes, experiences, and success, leading to feelings of powerlessness and reliance on external sources of control.

family therapy

a form of psychotherapy that involves working with families and their members to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and address interpersonal dynamics and relational patterns that contribute to psychological distress or dysfunction.

feel-good, do-good phenomenon

a psychological phenomenon whereby individuals who are in a positive mood or experience positive emotions are more likely to engage in altruistic or prosocial behavior toward others.

general adaptation syndrome

a theoretical framework proposed by Hans Selye to describe the body's physiological response to stress, involving three stages - alarm (activation of fight-or-flight response), resistance (adaptation and coping with stressors), and exhaustion (depletion of resources and increased susceptibility to illness).

generalized anxiety disorder

an anxiety disorder characterized by excessive and persistent worry or anxiety about a wide range of everyday events or activities, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as muscle tension or restlessness.

gratitude

the feeling or expression of appreciation, thankfulness, or recognition for the positive aspects of one's life, experiences, or relationships, which has been linked to greater happiness, resilience, and well-being.

group therapy

a form of psychotherapy that involves a therapist leading a group of individuals with similar mental health concerns in therapeutic discussions, activities, or exercises, to explore emotions, share experiences, and provide mutual support.

Hans Selye

a Hungarian-Canadian endocrinologist known for his research on stress and the general adaptation syndrome, proposing that the body's response to stress involves three stages - alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

health psychology

a subfield of psychology that focuses on the psychological factors influencing health, illness, and healthcare delivery, including the study of behaviors, attitudes, and emotions related to health outcomes and well-being.

hoarding disorder

a mental health condition characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value, leading to excessive accumulation of clutter and impairment in functioning.

hypnosis

a trance-like state of focused attention, concentration, and suggestibility induced by a trained therapist, often used in therapy to facilitate relaxation, increase receptivity to suggestions, and explore subconscious thoughts and memories.

insight therapies

psychotherapeutic approaches that aim to increase self-awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, with the goal of resolving psychological conflicts, gaining insight into underlying issues, and promoting personal growth and well-being.

internal locus of control

a belief that one's own actions, efforts, and decisions primarily determine one's life outcomes, experiences, and success, leading to feelings of autonomy, responsibility, and self-efficacy.

interpretation

the therapist's analysis and explanation of the underlying meanings, motives, or conflicts revealed through the client's thoughts, behaviors, dreams, or associations, with the aim of fostering insight and understanding.

Joseph Wolpe

a South African psychiatrist known for his development of systematic desensitization as a treatment for phobias, as well as his contributions to behavior therapy and the understanding of anxiety disorders.

Kurt Lewin

a German-American psychologist known for his contributions to social psychology, group dynamics, and field theory, emphasizing the importance of environmental factors, group processes, and change management in understanding behavior.

learned helplessness

a psychological phenomenon in which individuals become passive and resigned in the face of aversive stimuli or uncontrollable events, due to repeated experiences of failure or lack of control.

lobotomy

a form of psychosurgery that involves severing or damaging connections in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, to alleviate symptoms of severe mental illness, although it is now largely discredited due to its severe and often irreversible side effects.

major depressive disorder

a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness, accompanied by changes in appetite, sleep, energy levels, and concentration, lasting for at least two weeks.

mania

a distinct period of abnormally elevated or irritable mood, accompanied by increased energy, activity, talkativeness, grandiosity, and impulsivity, which may occur in bipolar disorder or other psychiatric conditions.

Martin Seligman

an American psychologist known for his research on learned helplessness, optimism, resilience, and positive psychology, emphasizing the study of human strengths, virtues, and well-being.

Mary Cover Jones

an American psychologist known for her pioneering work in behavior therapy and for conducting one of the earliest documented cases of systematic desensitization to treat a child's phobia of rabbits.

medical model

an approach to understanding psychological disorders that conceptualizes them as medical conditions or illnesses, with symptoms, causes, and treatments similar to physical diseases, often emphasizing biological, genetic, and neurological factors.

meta-analysis

a statistical method used to combine and analyze the results of multiple independent studies on a specific topic or research question, to provide a comprehensive summary of the overall findings and evaluate the strength of evidence across studies.

mindfulness meditation

a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment, with openness, curiosity, and acceptance, often through techniques such as focused breathing or body scanning, which can reduce stress, enhance self-awareness, and promote emotional regulation.

neurodevelopmental disorders

a group of conditions characterized by impairments in brain function, development, or behavior that manifest early in childhood, such as autism spectrum disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

obsessive-compulsive disorder

an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or rituals performed to alleviate anxiety or prevent perceived harm (compulsions).

panic disorder

an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

persistent depressive disorder

also known as dysthymia, a chronic form of depression characterized by persistent low mood, irritability, or hopelessness, lasting for at least two years in adults (one year in children or adolescents).

person-centered therapy

developed by Carl Rogers, a humanistic approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness in the therapeutic relationship, with the belief that clients possess the capacity for self-understanding and growth.

personal control

the belief in one's ability to influence or control the outcomes of one's actions and experiences, which can have significant effects on motivation, coping strategies, and well-being.

personality disorders

a group of mental health conditions characterized by enduring patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that deviate from cultural expectations and cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or interpersonal functioning.

phobia

an anxiety disorder characterized by an irrational or excessive fear or aversion to specific objects, situations, or activities, leading to avoidance behavior and significant distress or impairment in daily life.

positive psychology

a branch of psychology that focuses on the study of positive emotions, strengths, virtues, and factors that contribute to human flourishing, resilience, and subjective well-being.

post-traumatic stress disorder

a mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, such as combat, natural disaster, or assault, characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, avoidance, and hyperarousal symptoms.

posthypnotic suggestion

a suggestion or instruction given to an individual during hypnosis that influences their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors after they emerge from the hypnotic state, often used to promote therapeutic changes or behaviors.

posttraumatic growth

positive psychological changes, personal growth, or increased resilience experienced by individuals following a traumatic or stressful event, such as greater appreciation for life, enhanced personal strength, or a deeper sense of meaning or purpose.

problem-focused coping

efforts to directly address and manage the underlying cause of stress or problem, by seeking solutions, taking action, or making changes to the situation or environment.

psychoanalysis

a form of psychotherapy developed by Sigmund Freud, based on the exploration of unconscious conflicts, memories, and desires, with the goal of bringing unconscious material into conscious awareness and resolving psychological symptoms and distress.

psychodynamic theory

a range of psychological theories and therapeutic approaches that emphasize the role of unconscious processes, childhood experiences, and interpersonal relationships in shaping personality, behavior, and mental health.

psychological disorder

a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors that causes significant distress, impairment in functioning, or deviation from cultural norms, leading to disruption in daily life and relationships.

psychoneuroimmunology

an interdisciplinary field that explores the interactions between psychological processes (such as stress, emotions) and the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, examining how these interactions influence health and disease.

psychopharmacology

the study of the effects of drugs on mental processes, emotions, behavior, and psychological disorders, as well as the development and use of medications for the treatment of mental health conditions.

psychosurgery

a surgical procedure that involves altering or removing specific areas of the brain to treat severe and refractory mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or depression.

psychotherapy

also known as talk therapy or counseling, a form of treatment that involves therapeutic communication and interaction between a trained mental health professional (therapist) and an individual or group, aimed at alleviating psychological distress, resolving interpersonal conflicts, and promoting personal growth and well-being.

psychotic disorders

a group of mental health conditions characterized by psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, or grossly impaired reality testing, which significantly impact perception, cognition, and behavior.

rational-emotive behavior therapy (REBT)

focuses on identifying and disputing irrational beliefs, attitudes, and cognitive distortions that contribute to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors.

relative deprivation

the perception or feeling of being deprived or disadvantaged in comparison to others, leading to feelings of resentment, frustration, or injustice, especially when expectations or standards are not met.

resilience

the capacity to adapt, bounce back, and recover from adversity, trauma, or significant life challenges, often characterized by the ability to maintain psychological well-being and functioning in the face of stressors.