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Definition Sensation is the process by which our sensory organs detect stimuli from the environment and convert them into electrical signals that the brain can interpret. It is the first step in how we experience the world around us, involving the five primary...

Definition Sensory adaptation is the process by which our sensory receptors become less responsive to constant or unchanging stimuli over time. This allows us to focus on more important changes in our environment rather than being overwhelmed by steady, irrele...

Definition Sensory Interaction refers to the process where two or more of our senses (such as sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell) work together to create a unified experience. It highlights how our brain integrates information from different sensory inputs ...

Definition Sensory memory is a type of memory system that briefly holds sensory information immediately after we perceive something through our senses. It acts as a temporary storage area where raw sensory data is retained for a very short time before being ei...

Definition Serotonin is a chemical compound in the body that acts as a neurotransmitter, meaning it helps transmit signals between nerve cells. It plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and social behavior. Serotonin is primarily found in th...

Definition The shadow represents the aspects of the personality that a person denies, represses, or fails to recognize in themselves. In Jungian psychology, it encompasses traits, impulses, and emotions that are incompatible with one’s self-image or social per...

Definition Shaping is a method in operant conditioning where complex behaviors are learned by reinforcing successive approximations of the desired behavior. This technique involves rewarding closer and closer actions to the target behavior until the individual...

Definition Short-term memory refers to the temporary storage system within our brains that holds small amounts of information for a brief period, typically lasting a few seconds to about a minute. It is responsible for temporarily keeping details that are imme...

Definition Skepticism is a mindset or approach characterized by questioning, doubting, or critically examining claims, ideas, or beliefs before accepting them as true. It involves seeking evidence, logical reasoning, and rational analysis to evaluate whether s...

Definition Sleep is a naturally occurring state of mind and body characterized by reduced physical activity, closed eyes, and temporary unconsciousness. It is essential for survival, as it allows the brain and body to rest, recover, and restore energy levels n...

Definition Sleep paralysis is a temporary inability to move or speak that occurs during the transition between sleep and wakefulness, typically when falling asleep (hypnagogic) or waking up (hypnopompic). During this state, individuals are partially conscious ...

Definition A social aggregate refers to a collection of individuals who are physically present in the same location at the same time but do not necessarily interact or share common goals. Unlike social groups, which have structured relationships and shared ide...

Definition Social class refers to a system of stratification or hierarchy within society where individuals are grouped based on shared characteristics such as wealth, income, education, and occupation. These groupings create distinct layers or classes within s...

Definition The social-cognitive theory, developed by psychologist Albert Bandura, explains human learning as a dynamic interaction between individuals (personal factors), their environment (external influences), and their behaviors. It emphasizes the role of o...

Definition Social cohesion refers to the degree of unity, solidarity, and sense of belonging among members of a society or community. It involves shared values, mutual respect, and cooperation between individuals from diverse backgrounds, despite differences i...

Definition When participants give answers they think are socially acceptable. Example In a study about exercise and health and lifestyle, participants may over-report healthy activities and under-report unhealthy activities in order to better align with socia...

Definition    Social facilitation refers to the phenomenon where individuals perform tasks more efficiently or   effectively when they are in the presence of others compared to when they are alone. It occurs because people feel motivated by the awareness that ...

Definition A social group is a collection of individuals who share common interests, goals, or identities, and interact with one another in a structured way. These groups can vary in size, purpose, and level of formality. For example, families, clubs, teams, a...

Definition Social institutions are the pillars of society. They are structured systems of norms, roles, and relationships that emerge to fulfill the basic needs of a society. These institutions help organize behavior, establish expectations, and ensure societ...

Definition Socialization is the process through which individuals learn the norms, values, behaviors, and skills necessary to function within a society or group. It involves acquiring knowledge about how to interact with others, understand cultural expectation...