PSY 405 Chapter Notes - Chapter 12: Prefrontal Cortex, Glucocorticoid, Amygdala
29 Nov 2016
School
Department
Course
Professor
Document Summary
Key point: there is no single genetic switch that when flipped causes some trait. Science tells us that early life experiences are built into our bodies. A necessary aspect of healthy development that occurs in the context of stable, supportive relationships. Brief increases in heart rate and mild changes in stress hormone levels. Stress responses that could disrupt brain architecture, but are buffered by supportive relationships. Allows the brain an opportunity to recover from potentially damaging effects. Strong, prolonged activation of the body"s stress response systems in the absence of the buffering protection of adult support. Can damage developing brain architecture and create a short fuse for the body"s stress response systems, leading to lifelong problems in learning, behavior, and both physical and mental health. Effects of stress on the brain reviewed in gee and casey (2015) Overactivation and morphological changes in the amygdala: correlates with increased anxiety.
