AP Psych vocab unit 1 (first half)

Acetylecholine

A neurotransmitter that plays a key role in muscle contraction and is involved in learning and memory. It is also associated with the autonomic nervous system.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that is critical for movement, reward, and mood regulation. It is involved in reinforcing pleasurable experiences and is linked to conditions such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that contributes to the regulation of mood, appetite, and sleep. It is often referred to as the "feel-good" chemical and is implicated in depression and anxiety disorders.

norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter involved in arousal, alertness, and the stress response. It also plays a role in mood regulation and is linked to conditions like anxiety and depression.

GABA

A neurotransmitter that acts as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, crucial for reducing neuronal excitability and regulating anxiety, mood, and muscle tone.

Glutamate

A neurotransmitter that acts as the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, playing a key role in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory.

endorphins

Peptides that help relieve pain and induce feelings of pleasure or euphoria. They are often referred to as the body's natural painkillers.

Substance P

A neuropeptide involved in the transmission of pain signals and the inflammatory response, playing a critical role in how we perceive pain.

Adrenaline

A hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands, involved in the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate and energy levels.

Ghrelin

a hormone primarily produced by the stomach that stimulates appetite, regulates energy balance, and influences multiple physiological processes beyond hunger.

Leptin

a hormone produced by fat cells that regulates long-term energy balance, appetite, and body weight by signaling the brain about the body’s energy stores.

Melatonin

a hormone produced mainly by the pineal gland at night, regulating the sleep‑wake cycle and acting as the body’s biological “darkness signal.”

Oxytocin

a neurohormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary, best known for triggering uterine contractions during labor, enabling milk letdown in breastfeeding, and influencing social bonding and emotional behavior.