Health Psychology Definitions

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Substance Misuse
The continued use of any mild altering drug that severely affects a person's physical and mental health, social situations and responsibilities.
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Tolerance
The development of a need for greater amounts of a drug with repeated use in order to achieve the same effect. Occurs with many drugs such as alcohol, heroin and cocaine.
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Psychological Dependence
A compulsion to take a drug for the pleasant effects it has such as feelings of exhilaration or self confidence. May lead to misuse as the compulsion can result in uncontrolled drug taking.
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Physical Dependence
Refers to a compulsion to keep taking drugs in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Continued use of the drug is required for the user to feel normal.
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Synapse
A small gap found between two neurons that is bordered by a Pre- and Post- synaptic membrane. It is normally crossed by neurotransmitters but it is also a site of action for drugs.
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Withdrawal
The experience of physically painful and unpleasant symptoms suffered by a physically dependent user as the effects of the drugs wear off. This may include vomiting, headaches and convulsing although they vary from drug to drug.
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Card 2

Front

The development of a need for greater amounts of a drug with repeated use in order to achieve the same effect. Occurs with many drugs such as alcohol, heroin and cocaine.

Back

Tolerance

Card 3

Front

A compulsion to take a drug for the pleasant effects it has such as feelings of exhilaration or self confidence. May lead to misuse as the compulsion can result in uncontrolled drug taking.

Back

Preview of the back of card 3

Card 4

Front

Refers to a compulsion to keep taking drugs in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Continued use of the drug is required for the user to feel normal.

Back

Preview of the back of card 4

Card 5

Front

A small gap found between two neurons that is bordered by a Pre- and Post- synaptic membrane. It is normally crossed by neurotransmitters but it is also a site of action for drugs.

Back

Preview of the back of card 5
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