Lecture. 13 Flashcards
What are the two dimensions of social behavior, and what do they represent?
The two dimensions of social behavior are afflictive (forming connections with people) and antagonistic (pushing people away or being competitive). They represent different aspects of social interactions.
Name three key processes that underpin social interaction according to the lecture notes.
Three key processes underpinning social interaction are social perception, social inferences, and social learning.
What is the role of mirror neurons in social cognition, and where are they found in the brain?
Mirror neurons play a role in mimicking others’ experiences and are found in various brain regions, including the ventral premotor cortex and others.
How do mirror neurons assist with empathy
Mirror neurons assist with empathy by allowing individuals to place themselves in another person’s situation and understand their experiences through imitation.
What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and how does it affect neurons in the brain?
TMS is a technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate neurons. When applied to specific brain regions, it can influence the activity of the neurons underneath.
Explain the impact of TMS applied to the premotor cortex on action recognition
TMS stimulation of the premotor cortex can impair recognition of actions related to the area stimulated, such as lip movements or hand movements.
How does the Faux Pas Test assess an individual’s ability to understand others’ mental states?
The Faux Pas Test assesses the ability to detect social faux pas, understand the mental states of individuals involved, and determine why certain statements should not have been made.
how does social connection influence an individual’s health behaviors?
Social connection can influence an individual’s health behaviors by encouraging healthy habits through social influences, obligations, and encouragement from friends and family.
What is the social control hypothesis, and how does it explain the impact of social connection on health behaviors?
The social control hypothesis suggests that social connection influences health behaviors by providing social support, encouragement, and shared values, which help individuals adopt healthier habits.
According to evolutionary hypotheses discussed in the lecture notes, why is it advantageous for humans to live in groups?
Evolutionary hypotheses suggest that living in groups is advantageous as it enhances survival, reproduction, and overall well-being by promoting cooperation, resource sharing, and social bonds.
What is the relationship between cortisol levels and social isolation
Social isolation can lead to increased cortisol levels, which can disrupt sleep, immune function, and cognition, and is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
How have social interactions changed over time, and what impact has the internet had on face-to-face interactions
Social interactions have changed, with some individuals feeling more isolated. The internet does not necessarily substitute for face-to-face interactions, and excessive social media use can lead to increased loneliness.
What are the key concepts regarding social cognition and social connection?
Key concepts include simulation theory, mirror neurons, premotor cortex, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), social connection, social control hypothesis, evolutionary hypothesis, cortisol and Alzheimer’s disease, and epigenetics.
How do mirror neurons contribute to our understanding of other people’s experiences and emotions?
Mirror neurons enable individuals to mimic and understand other people’s experiences and emotions by firing when observing similar behaviors or emotions in others.
How does social isolation relate to an increased risk of dementia, and what role does cortisol play in this relationship?
Social isolation increases the risk of dementia, possibly through elevated cortisol levels, which affect sleep, cognition, and immune function, and are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
