Psychology of Body Health

A collection of vocabulary-related flashcards for the key concepts in health psychology.

Health Psychology

The study of how psychological, behavioral, and cultural factors contribute to physical health and illness.

Stress

The response of the body and mind to challenges or demands, characterized by physical, emotional, and mental reactions.

Stressors

Events or conditions that trigger stress by challenging an individual's ability to cope or adjust.

Eustress

Positive stress that enhances motivation, performance, and emotional well-being.

Distress

Negative stress that decreases motivation, impairs performance, and leads to emotional and physical problems.

Daily Hassles

Minor irritations that occur regularly and can accumulate over time to affect health.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES)

Stressful or traumatic events in childhood that can have long-lasting effects on health and well-being.

General Adaptation Syndrome

Three-stage response to stress, including alarm, resistance, and exhaustion, describing how the body reacts and adapts.

Fight or Flight Response

A physiological reaction to perceived threats that prepares the body to fight, flee, or freeze to enhance survival.

Tend and Befriend Theory

A behavioral reaction to stress that involves nurturing oneself and seeking social support.

Problem Focused Coping

Involves directly managing or solving the source of stress to reduce its impact.

Emotion Focused Coping

Managing the emotional response to stress rather than changing the stressful situation itself.

Positive Psychology

The scientific study of human flourishing to help individuals and communities thrive.

Subjective Well Being

Self-perceived happiness or satisfaction with life.

Resilience

The ability to adapt and recover quickly from difficulties or change.

Positive Emotions

Feelings that foster enjoyment, interest, and contentment and contribute to overall well-being and happiness.

Gratitude

The appreciation of what is valuable and meaningful to oneself, enhancing well-being.

Signature Strengths & Virtues

Core characteristics that a person naturally possesses and expresses, contributing to fulfilling and engaged living.