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Definition The absolute threshold is the minimum level of stimulus energy required for a person to detect or notice something through their senses. It represents the point at which a stimulus becomes strong enough to be perceived by the brain, even if it is no...

Definition Acetylcholine (ACh) is a neurotransmitter, which is a chemical messenger that helps transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain and throughout the nervous system. It plays a crucial role in various functions, including memory, learning, attent...

Definition Acquisition in classical conditioning refers to the process of learning a new association between two stimuli. It occurs when a neutral stimulus (one that doesn’t naturally elicit a response) is repeatedly paired with a meaningful stimulus (one that...

Definition Achieved status refers to a social position or rank that an individual attains through their own efforts, accomplishments, and personal choices. Unlike ascribed status (which is assigned at birth, such as race or gender), achieved status is earned o...

Definition An action potential is a rapid electrical impulse that travels along the membrane of a neuron (nerve cell). It occurs when there is a sudden change in the electrical charge across the membrane, caused by the movement of positively charged ions (sodi...

Definition: Adaptation refers to the process by which individuals modify their behavior or beliefs when exposed to different cultural experiences, aiming to successfully interact within a new environment. Example: A person moves from a country where quiet conv...

Definition Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands located on top of the kidneys. It plays a crucial role in the body's "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body to react quickly to perc...

Definition An allele is a specific form of a gene that can have different variations, which contribute to the genetic diversity among individuals. Each allele represents a slight change in the DNA sequence of a particular gene and can influence physical traits...

Definition The all-or-none response refers to how neurons (nerve cells) work: when a neuron receives enough stimulation (reaching a certain threshold), it fires an electrical signal called an action potential, which travels down its length. If the stimulation ...

Definition Amnesia is a memory disorder characterized by the inability to recall information that was previously learned or events experienced. It can result from brain injuries, neurological conditions, or psychological trauma. Amnesia affects different types...

Definition The amygdala is a small, almond-shaped structure located deep within the brain. It plays a key role in processing emotions, particularly fear and anxiety, and is part of the limbic system, which is involved in emotional responses. The amygdala helps...

Definition Analytical Psychology, developed by Carl Gustav Jung, explores the relationship between the conscious and unconscious aspects of the mind. Jung viewed the psyche as a self-regulating system seeking balance, with the ego representing consciousness, t...

Definition Anchoring bias is a cognitive bias where individuals rely too heavily on the first piece of information they encounter when making decisions. This initial piece of information, known as an "anchor," significantly influences subsequent judgments and ...

Definition The anima and animus represent the unconscious feminine and masculine aspects of the psyche. Jung believed that every person contains both, regardless of gender. The anima embodies qualities traditionally associated with the feminine - intuition, r...

Definition Animism is the belief that non-human entities such as animals, plants, objects, or natural phenomena are alive and possess some form of consciousness, spirit, or souReligion 419l. In sociology, animism is often studied as part of religious or cultur...

Definition Annihilation refers to the process by which individuals or groups are systematically excluded, marginalized, and stripped of their humanity in society. It occurs when people are denied recognition of their identity, rights, or existence, often throu...

Definition Anomie is a concept from sociology that describes a state of normlessness or a breakdown in social norms and values within a society. It occurs when individuals feel disconnected from societal rules and expectations, leading to confusion, alienation...

Definition Anomie theory of deviance, developed by sociologist Émile Durkheim, suggests that deviance occurs when individuals face a lack of clear social norms or rules that guide their behavior. In such situations, people become uncertain about what is expect...

Definition Anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive fear or worry that interferes with daily life. Unlike normal feelings of nervousness, anxiety disorders involve persistent and overwhelming emotions that can significantly impa...

Definition An archetype is a universal pattern or blueprint within the human psyche that shapes perception, behavior, and imagination. Carl Jung proposed that archetypes arise from the collective unconscious, the shared psychological inheritance of humanity. ...