PSYC 155 Chapter Notes - Chapter 4: Reflex Syncope, Reduced Affect Display, Cortisol
Document Summary
Fear- immediate alarm reaction to present danger or life-threatening emergencies: can be good because it prompts action, a present-oriented emotional state. Activates hpa axis and is directly related to gaba, noradrenaline, and serotonin systems. Affects limbic system (especially hippocampus and amygdala) which relays danger signals from brainstem to cortex. Behavioral inhibition system- circuit in limbic system that responds to threat signals by inhibiting activity and causing anxiety: involved in anxiety. Psychological contributions: sense of uncontrollability developed early on due to experience. Leads to uncertainty about selves and ability to deal with future events: overprotective or overintrusive parents that never let children experience adversity so they don"t learn that they can control environment. Can also misattribute internal cues which lead you to experience the panic. Social contributions: stress that triggers anxiety is usually social/interpersonal in nature. Triple vulnerability theory- inherited genetic vulnerability to overreact to stress, it is not enough to develop anxiety disorder though.
