PSYC23H3 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Locus Coeruleus, Sympathetic Nervous System, Vagus Nerve
Document Summary
In humans, the relevant glucocorticoid is called cortisol, also known as hydrocortisone: epinephrine and glucocorticoids mobilize energy for muscles, increase cardiovascular tone so oxygen can travel more quickly, and turn off nonessential activities like growth. In a fight-or-flight scenario, epinephrine is the one handing out guns; glucocorticoids are the ones drawing up blueprints for new aircraft carriers needed for the war effort. But when primates, human or otherwise, chronically and erroneously believe that a homeostatic challenge is about to come, they have entered the realm of neurosis, anxiety and paranoia. In the 1950s and 1960s pioneers such as john mason, seymour levine and jay weiss began to identify key facets of psychological stress. They found that such stress is exacerbated if there is no outlet for frustration, no sense of control, no social support and no impression that something better will follow.
