Lecture_4_-_8_Heath_Psychology

Psychophysiology

The study of the relationship between psychological processes and physiological responses.

Homeostasis

The ability of an organism or environment to maintain stable internal conditions.

Allostasis

The process of achieving stability through physiological or behavioral change, involving active adaptation to stressors.

Allostatic Load

The cumulative physiological toll of chronic stress on the body, resulting in various health issues.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response, increasing heart rate and energy availability.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that promotes 'rest and digest' functions, slowing heart rate and supporting digestion.

Endocrine System

The system of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream, controlling various bodily functions.

Cognitive Appraisal

The evaluation of the significance of a stressor to personal well-being and the assessment of one's resources to deal with it.

Perceived Stress

The subjective experience of stress, reflecting how unpredictable and overwhelming an individual finds their life situations.

Emotion-focused Coping

Coping strategies aimed at reducing emotional distress rather than addressing the problem directly.

Problem-focused Coping

Coping strategies that target the causes of stress directly, aiming to eliminate or reduce them.

Matching Hypothesis

The idea that social support is most effective when there is a match between an individual's needs and the support received.

Social Support

The emotional, informational, or tangible assistance provided by others that can impact health outcomes.

Oxytocin

A hormone released in response to stress; associated with social bonding, reduced stress responses, and improved wound healing.

Type A Behavior Pattern

A personality pattern characterized by competitiveness, urgency, and hostility, linked to a higher risk of heart disease.

Type B Behavior Pattern

A personality pattern marked by a relaxed, laid-back demeanor, in contrast to Type A.

Gratitude

A positive emotional response that can enhance psychological and physical well-being.

Mindfulness

A mental practice of focusing on and accepting the present moment, beneficial for mental and physical health.

Emotional Disclosure

The process of revealing personal thoughts and feelings, which can lead to improved health outcomes.

Humor

A positive emotional state that may improve health by inducing physiological changes and increasing social support.

Religiosity

The extent of an individual's religious involvement, associated with better health outcomes.

Stress Moderators

Factors that influence the strength of the relationship between stressors and stress responses.

Positive Emotional States

Emotional experiences such as joy or satisfaction that are linked to better health and longevity.

Self-affirmation

The practice of reflecting on personal values to reduce stress response in challenging situations.

Daily Hassles

Minor annoyances or events that require some adjustment and can accumulate to impact health negatively.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

A form of therapy that aims to change patterns of thinking or behavior that are causing people's problems.

Stress Measurement

Methods used to assess the presence and intensity of stress in individuals, including life changes and daily hassles.

Matching Hypothesis (Cohen & Wills, 1985)

The theory positing that social support is most effective when the support provided matches the individual's specific needs and personal circumstances, enhancing well-being and coping with stress.