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Definition Mechanical solidarity is a concept in sociology introduced by Émile Durkheim that describes the type of social cohesion found in small, traditional societies where people share similar jobs, beliefs, values, and ways of life. This form of solidarity...

Definition A meditative state, in psychology, refers to a mental state characterized by focused attention, calmness, and heightened awareness. It often involves intentionally redirecting one's thoughts away from stress or external distractions toward a specifi...

Definition Sarnoff Mednick's theory of deviance suggests that some individuals are biologically predisposed to engage in antisocial or deviant behavior due to genetic factors. According to Mednick, these individuals have a constitutional vulnerability, meaning...

Definition The medulla oblongata, often referred to simply as the medulla, is a part of the brainstem located at the base of the brain where it connects to the spinal cord. It plays a crucial role in controlling vital life-sustaining functions such as breathin...

Definition Memory is the process by which information is encoded, stored, and retrieved in the brain. It allows individuals to recall past experiences, knowledge, skills, and events, facilitating learning, planning, and decision-making. Example When a child is...

Definition Memory consolidation is the process by which newly acquired information or skills are stabilized and transferred from short-term memory to long-term memory. This process strengthens neural connections in the brain, making it easier to recall the inf...

Definition Memory construction refers to the process by which humans organize and interpret past experiences into coherent memories. It involves how we encode, store, and retrieve information, often shaping these memories through personal perspectives, emotion...

Definition Memory reconstruction refers to the process by which humans reconstruct their memories when recalling past events. Unlike a video recording that plays back an exact copy of an event, human memory is dynamic and reconstructive. When we remember somet...

Definition    The Milgram Experiment was a psychological study conducted by Stanley Milgram in 1963 to explore how ordinary people respond to authority figures when instructed to perform harmful actions. In the experiment, participants were told they were test...

Definition Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells that activate both when an individual performs a specific action and when they observe someone else performing the same action. These neurons help us understand others' actions, intentions, and emotions by ...

Definition The misinformation effect refers to a phenomenon in human memory where exposure to incorrect information after an event can alter a person's recollection of that event. This means that false details introduced after the fact can become integrated in...

Definition Mnemonics are techniques or tools used to aid memory by associating difficult-to-remember information with something more familiar, relatable, or vivid. These methods help individuals encode and retrieve information more effectively by creating ment...

Definition Monotheism is the belief in the existence of one supreme being or deity who is considered all-powerful, all-knowing, and the creator of the universe. Unlike polytheistic religions, which worship multiple gods, monotheism emphasizes a singular divine...

Definition Mood, in psychology, refers to a relatively enduring emotional state that influences how a person feels and perceives the world around them. Unlike emotions, which are typically short-lived and triggered by specific events, moods can last for minute...

Definition Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions that involve persistent and significant disturbances in a person’s emotional state. These disturbances profoundly impact how a person feels, thinks, behaves, and functions in daily life – aff...

Definition Mores are the deeply held customs, behaviors, and beliefs of a society or culture that are considered morally right or wrong by its members. Unlike fokways, which may be flexible or casual, mores are often viewed as essential to maintaining social o...

Definition Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a key role in regulating sleep-wake cycles, helping you feel drowsy at night and awake during the day. The production of melatonin increases when it gets dark and decreases w...

Definition Modeling, within the context of social learning theory, refers to the process through which individuals learn new behaviors, attitudes, or skills by observing and imitating others. This "modeling" typically occurs in a social context where someone (...

Definition Monogamy refers to a type of relationship where two people are exclusively involved with each other emotionally, romantically, or sexually. In most contexts, monogamy is associated with romantic relationships, though it can also apply to friendships...

Definition Motivation is the driving force that compels individuals to act or behave in a certain way, often influenced by internal desires, external factors, or a combination of both. It involves the reasons behind why people engage in specific activities, pe...