Chapter 2 - Stress: The Constant Challenge Flashcards
Stressor
Any physical or psychological event or condition that produces usually negative reactions.
Stress Response
The physical and emotional reactions to a stressor.
Stress
The general physical and emotional state that the stressor produces.
Nervous System
The brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
Autonomic Nervous System
The part of the nervous system that controls certain basic body processes; consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.
Parasympathetic Division
The part of the autonomic nervous system that moderates the excitatory effect of the sympathetic division, slowing metabolism and restoring energy supplies.
Sympathetic Division
Division of the autonomic nervous system that reacts to danger or other challenges by accelerating body processes.
Endocrine System
The system of glands, tissues, and cells that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to influence metabolism and other body processes.
Hormones
A chemical messenger produced in the body and transported in the bloodstream to target cells or organs for specific regulation of their activities.
Cortisol
A steroid hormone secreted by the cortex (outer layer) of the adrenal gland that triggers an energy source for your large muscles; also called hydrocortisone.
Epinephrine
A hormone secreted by the medulla (inner core) of the adrenal gland that affects the functioning of organs involved in responding to a stressor; also called adrenaline.
Fight, Flight, or Freeze Reaction
A defense reaction that prepares a person for conflict or escape by triggering hormonal, cardiovascular, metabolic, and behavioral changes.
Homeostasis
A state of stability and consistency in an individual’s psychological functioning.
Cognitive
of, relating to, or being conscious of mental activities (such as thinking, reasoning, remembering, imagining, learning words, and using language.
Personality
The sum of behavioral, cognitive, and emotional tendencies.
Resilience
A personality trait associated with the ability to face adversity and recover quickly from difficulties.
Gender Role
The activities, abilities, and characteristics deemed culturally appropriate for us based on our sex.
General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)
A patttern of stress responses consiting of threestages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.
Eustress
Stress resulting from a stressor perceived to be pleasant.
Distress
Stress resulting from a stressor perceived to be unpleasant.
Allostatic Load
The “wear and tear” on the body that results from long-term exposure to repeated or chronic stress.
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)
The study of the interactions among the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.
Acute Stress
Stress immediately following a stressor; may last only minutes or may turn into chronic stress.
Chronic Stress
Stress that continues for days, weeks, or longer.
Mindfulness
The intentional cultivation of attention in a way that is non-judging and non-striving
Is Stress Experienced the same by everyone?
No
Potential Health Effects of Chronic Stress
-Weakened Immune System
-Heart Disease
-High Blood Pressure
-Substance Abuse
-DIgestive and Eating Problems
-Sleep Disturbances
-Depression & Anxiety
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Which part of the Autonomic Nervous System is used when under stress? (Sympathetic or Parasympathetic)
Sympathetic