Social Cognition Lecture Notes

A set of flashcards summarizing key terms and definitions related to social cognition, including important theories, concepts, and findings discussed in the lecture.

Social Cognition

The process of how people process, store, and apply information about others and social situations.

Faux Pas Test

A psychological assessment that evaluates the ability to detect and understand social blunders.

Simulation Theory

The idea that we understand others' experiences by mimicking their mental states.

Mirror Neurons

Neurons that fire when an individual performs an action and also when they observe someone else performing that action.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

A non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain.

Social Connection

The existence and interconnections of social relationships that can influence individual well-being.

Cortisol

A hormone released in response to stress, with increased levels linked to higher risks of dementia.

Epigenetics

The study of how environmental factors can alter gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence.

Social Control Hypothesis

The theory that social connections influence health behaviors through social obligations and pressures.

Evolutionary Hypothesis

The hypothesis that social behaviors and structures have evolved to enhance survival and reproduction.

Cognitive Processes

Mental processes that include perception, memory, reasoning, and understanding in social contexts.

Dementia and Social Isolation

The connection suggesting that increased social isolation can lead to a higher risk of developing dementia.

Mortality Rates and Social Networks

Statistics showing how social relationships impact survival rates over time.

Social Learning

Learning that occurs through observing others and the social environment.

Bonding

A social drive that refers to the emotional connection between individuals.

Social Status

An individual's perceived standing in a social hierarchy.