Emotions and the Brain

These flashcards cover major concepts about emotions and their neurological mechanisms as discussed in the lecture.

An immediate, specific, positive or negative response to a stimulus.

What is the definition of emotion?

Feeling is the subjective experience of an emotion, shaped by thoughts and interpretations.

How does feeling differ from emotion?

James-Lange Theory.

What theory posits that emotions are physiological responses to stimuli, developed independently by James and Lange?

Emotions that are considered universal and form the foundation of emotional experiences.

What are basic emotions?

It simplifies the study of emotions, making research more manageable.

What is the purpose of categorizing some emotions as basic?

Leads to anxiety disorders, PTSD, and phobias.

What are the consequences of hyperactivity in the amygdala?

Crucial for learning, memory formation, and spatial navigation.

What is the function of the hippocampus?

Anterograde amnesia, the inability to form new memories.

What condition is caused by damage to the hippocampus?

Maintains homeostasis by controlling the autonomic nervous system and endocrine system.

What is the role of the hypothalamus?

Alarm Stage, Resistance Stage, and Exhaustion Stage.

What are the three stages of General Adaptation Syndrome?

Cognitive Reappraisal, which involves rethinking a stressful situation positively.

Name one adaptive coping mechanism.

Substance abuse, which can worsen mental and physical health over time.

What is a maladaptive coping mechanism?

It connects cognitive functions of the cerebral cortex with autonomic and endocrine systems.

How does the limbic system contribute to emotional regulation?

A genuine smile that involves two muscle groups and is symmetrical.

What characterizes the Duchenne smile?

It can impair hippocampal function, leading to memory deficits.

What impact does chronic stress have on the hippocampus?

It reduces amygdala fear responses by releasing oxytocin.

What is the effect of social support on stress?