Psychology Unit 3 AOS 1

Nervous System

The system responsible for processing sensory information, coordinating responses, and maintaining homeostasis.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord; controls voluntary and involuntary processes.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Connects the CNS to the body; includes the somatic and autonomic nervous systems.

Somatic Nervous System (SNS)

Part of the PNS that controls voluntary movement and relays sensory information.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Regulates involuntary functions; divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the ANS activated during 'fight-or-flight' response.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of the ANS activated during 'rest-and-digest' processes.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that facilitate communication between neurons across synapses.

Excitatory Neurotransmitters

Increase neural activity; for example, glutamate.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Decrease neural activity; for example, GABA.

Neuromodulators

Influence long-term neural function and behavior; examples include dopamine and serotonin.

Synaptic Transmission

The process by which neurons communicate through synapses using electrical or chemical signals.

Chemical Synapses

Synapses that use neurotransmitters to relay signals; more common and allow for modulation.

Electrical Synapses

Use gap junctions to allow direct ionic current flow; faster but less flexible.

Synaptic Plasticity

The brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself based on experience.

Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)

Strengthening of synaptic connections through repeated activation, important for learning.

Long-Term Depression (LTD)

Weakening of synaptic connections due to reduced activity.

Gut-Brain Axis (GBA)

The relationship between gut microbiota and the nervous system, influencing mental health.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

Hans Selye’s model explaining the body's response to prolonged stress in three stages: alarm, resistance, exhaustion.

Transactional Model of Stress and Coping

Lazarus & Folkman’s model that describes how cognitive appraisal influences stress.

Approach Strategies

Coping methods that involve actively dealing with stress, like problem-solving.

Avoidance Strategies

Coping methods that involve ignoring or escaping stress, like denial.