PSYC 1101 Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Circadian Rhythm, Pentobarbital, Endorphins

• School: Northeastern University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 1101
• Professor: Eidson

Document Summary

Psychoactive drugs- chemicals introduced into the body which alter perceptions, mood, and other elements of conscious experience. Tolerance- refers to the diminished psychoactive effects after repeated use. Feeds addiction because increased amounts are needed to get desired effect. Expectancy effects- body prematurely is affected after thinking it"s going to receive a certain drug (sort of drug-based placebo) Withdrawal- painful symptoms of body readjusting to the absence of the drug. Worsens addiction because user wants to get high to avoid the symptoms. Time spent preoccupied with substance, obtaining it, and recovering from effects. Depressants- chemicals that reduce neural activity and other body functions. Reduced sympathetic nervous system activity, slower thought and physical reaction. Caused by disrupted rem sleep and reduced synapse formation. Impaired judgement, self-monitoring and inhibition, increased accidents/addictions. Barbiturates- tranquilizers that depress central nervous system activity. Negatives- reduce memory, judgement and concentration, can lead to death if combined with alcohol. Opiates- chemicals made from poppy properties were made.