Common Psychological Concepts for School Start Times

Vocabulary-style flashcards defining key psychological concepts relevant to the impact of school start times on students.

Circadian rhythms

The body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

Melatonin production

Hormonal changes in adolescence related to the body's sleep signals.

Executive functioning

Cognitive processes including planning, self-control, and working memory.

Memory formation and consolidation

The cognitive processes involved in creating and strengthening memories.

Prefrontal cortex development

Brain development occurring during adolescent stages that affects high-level cognitive tasks.

Cortisol

A hormone involved in the stress response, categorized under Health Psychology.

Sleep hygiene

Health behaviors and practices that are conducive to sleeping well on a regular basis.

Social zeitgebers

Time cues derived from the social environment that influence biological rhythms.

Social learning theory

A concept in social psychology used to explain behaviors and peer influence on sleep habits.

Information processing models

Cognitive approach models that describe how information is handled within the brain.

Attention and concentration processes

Cognitive functions that are critical for academic performance and impacted by sleep.

Identity formation and academic motivation

Developmental psychology concepts related to the self and a student's drive to succeed.