2 Name Explain 1 Of The Explanations Of Biographical Disruption 2 ✓ Solved

2. Name & explain 1 of the explanations of biographical disruption (2 points) 3. What is the difference between loneliness and social isolation? (2 points) week Loneliness is a lack of intimacy, or a perception of lack, and dissatisfaction or unhappiness with a current relationship, while social isolation is a lack of contact with other people. 4. Explain two differences between the 'Fight or Flight' and 'Tend and Befriend' responses (2 points) week2 p.

Briefly explain the 3 stages within the GAS model of stress (3 points) week2 p. Explain how 'modern life' can affect genetic predisposition towards stress (3 points) week3 p. Explain the HPA Axis's role in depression. What happens to a depressed person's stress response and how may this lead to maladaptive behaviors? Name the different kinds of cortisol curves a depressed person may have.

Bio week. Name two differences between emotion focussed and problem focussed coping (2 points) week2 p11 Emotion -focused coping is about changing the meaning of transactions, managing your performance, and focusing on your emotions rather than your current situation. Problem focussed coping focus on undoing, repairing and preventing. By getting information, making changes, or escaping reality and making plans. 14.

Name a late life risk factor for depression (1 point) week4 p. What is the central aim of the stress response? (1 point) 17. What does nature vs nurture mean? (1 point) week3 p18 Nature is influenced by genes and other biological factors; Nurture refers to the influence of external factors, the result of life experience and continuous learning. 20. According to the DSM, name 3 of the syptoms that can form the diagnosis of depression (3 points) paul week.

In Alzheimer's, we see certain pathologies. What are these two pathologies? How does stress impact these pathologies? Thinking along these lines, can you theorize as to why stress may also hasten the onset of Huntington's disease which is caused by a mutated protein which leads to Huntington tangles? Alzheimer’s Pathology â— Tau proteins play a role in stabilizing the cytoskeletons (cellular skeletons) of neurons â— AD is associated with defective tau proteins which cannot stabilize microtubules â— Phosphorylation is a process where a protein is modified by the attachment of a molecule containing phosphorus atoms â— Tau hyperphosphorylation is a hallmark of AD where tau proteins clump into neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) â— Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a type of cell membrane protein concentrated in neuronal synapses â— Amyloid beta (Aβ) is an APP-related peptide (group of amino-acids) whose misfolding and aggregation gives rise to Aβ plaques 32.

Walk me through what happens in PTSD with regards to brain anatomy. How does PTSD impact the stress response and what are some consequences? Week5 p. What may account for the gender difference in the rate of depression diagnosis? (2 points) week4 p. Why is loneliness something that we should be concerned about for older adults? (3 points) week6 p.

Break down the components of the HPA axis and their function in the biological stress response. Name the primary stress hormone(s) released and their function in the body. What happens to the HPA axis with chronic stress? Bioweek4 p4 Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, increases sugars (glucose) in the bloodstream, enhances your brain's use of glucose and increases the availability of substances that repair tissues. Cortisol also curbs functions that would be nonessential or detrimental in a fight-or-flight situation.

40. Define epigenetics in the broadest sense. Describe to me the effects of methylation on the DNA in brief. How does this impact inherited genes? What does stress do to these methylation factors?

What kind of events may lead to this kind of epigenetic change and how may that impact the offspring who inherit said epigenetics? week 3, page 10-13 epigenetics†focuses on how DNA. is regulated to achieve those changes. 3.4DNA Methylation â— A methyl group is a type of molecule containing the –CH3 group of atoms â— DNA methylation is a process whereby methyl groups are added to DNA, thus changing DNA segment activity without changing the actual DNA sequence â— DNA methylation is a powerful suppressor of gene transcription (the process whereby DNA is transcribed into RNA), which is the first step of protein synthesis â— Abnormal levels of DNA methylation have been implicated in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) like atherosclerosis, and there is hope that DNA methylation measures could be used as early CVD biomarkers â— There is a global loss of methylation in aging, and twin studies indicate that methylation rates diverge as a result of environmental factors

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Assignment Solution: Biographical Disruption, Loneliness, Stress Response, and Epigenetics


1. Explanation of Biographical Disruption


Biographical disruption refers to the sudden and often unexpected changes in an individual’s life trajectory caused by major life events, such as illness, loss, or significant life transitions. In the context of health and illness, Graham (2000) defines biographical disruption as an alteration in one’s life narrative that necessitates a reinterpretation of the self and one’s relationships with others. It often occurs when individuals face a health crisis that challenges their understanding of their identity, capabilities, and social role (Bury, 1982).
For instance, a diagnosis of a chronic illness can lead to feelings of loss, incapacity, or marginalization, prompting a reevaluation of personal identity and life goals (Katz, 2010). This redefining process may incorporate experiences of trauma, grief, or adaptation to new realities, leading to what some researchers term a "reclamation of the self" (Lloyd, 2015). Thus, biographical disruption is not merely about experiencing a series of events; rather, it involves a deeper psychological process of change affected by interpersonal, societal, and environmental contexts.

2. Difference Between Loneliness and Social Isolation


Loneliness and social isolation are distinct concepts that significantly affect the mental health and well-being of individuals. Loneliness refers to the subjective experience of feeling disconnected from others, characterized by an individual’s dissatisfaction with the quality or quantity of their social interactions (Perlman & Peplau, 1981). Conversely, social isolation denotes an objective state of having minimal contact with other people, which may occur even in the presence of family or colleagues (Berkman & Glass, 2000).
While someone can feel lonely in a crowded room due to emotional disconnect, an isolated person may not necessarily feel lonely if they are content with the absence of social interactions (Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2018). This distinction is crucial, particularly among older adults, as loneliness can lead to a plethora of negative health outcomes, including increased risks of depression and cognitive decline (Holt-Lunstad, Smith, & Layton, 2010).

3. Differences between 'Fight or Flight' and 'Tend and Befriend' Responses


The 'Fight or Flight' response, conceptualized by Cannon (1932), is a physiological reaction to perceived threats that prepares the body for immediate physical action. This response triggers the sympathetic nervous system, causing an increase in heart rate, respiration, and adrenaline production, which facilitates quick responses to danger.
In contrast, the 'Tend and Befriend' response, as proposed by Taylor et al. (2000), acknowledges a more nurturing and socially supportive behavior toward stressors, particularly among women. This response promotes seeking social support and forming communal bonds as coping mechanisms, which can counteract fear and foster resilience (Graham, 2014).
In essence, while 'Fight or Flight' is about immediate survival through aggression or escape, 'Tend and Befriend' emphasizes cooperation, relationship-building, and emotional support, demonstrating gender differences in stress responses.

4. General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) Model of Stress


Hans Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) outlines three primary stages of stress response:
1. Alarm Stage: This initial reaction occurs when the body recognizes a stressor. The hypothalamus signals the adrenal glands to release stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, preparing the body for a ‘fight or flight’ response (Selye, 1976).
2. Resistance Stage: After the initial shock, the body attempts to adapt to the ongoing stressful situation. Hormone levels stabilize, and the body utilizes its resources to cope. However, if the stressors persist, energy levels may start to diminish.
3. Exhaustion Stage: Prolonged exposure to stress without adequate recovery leads to this final stage, characterized by depleted resources and increased vulnerability to illness and mental health conditions (Selye, 1976). Chronic stress during this phase can have detrimental effects, including heart disease, anxiety, and depression (Chrousos, 2009).

5. Modern Life and Genetic Predisposition Towards Stress


Modern life can significantly influence genetic predispositions toward stress through environmental factors that interact with genetic vulnerabilities. For example, high levels of chronic environmental stressors, such as job pressure and disrupted social networks, may exacerbate genetic risks for stress-related disorders (Caspi et al., 2003).
Studies suggest that lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and social support can mediate how genes express stress responses (Duman et al., 2016). Transformative life experiences and exposure to stressful environments may lead to epigenetic changes, impacting gene expression linked to stress resilience or susceptibility (Patterson et al., 2016).

6. Role of the HPA Axis in Depression


The HPA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal) axis is integral in regulating the body’s response to stress. In depression, dysregulation of the HPA axis often results in hyperactivation, leading to excessive production of cortisol, the primary stress hormone (Pariante & Lightman, 2008). This elevated cortisol level can contribute to neurobiological changes that may enhance susceptibility to depressive symptoms and maladaptive behaviors, such as withdrawal and altered eating patterns (Gonzalez et al., 2018).
Cortisol curves in depressed individuals can vary; some may exhibit diurnal cortisol dysregulation, characterized by elevated evening cortisol levels (Miller et al., 2005).

7. Differences Between Emotion-Focused and Problem-Focused Coping


Emotion-focused coping involves managing feelings and emotional responses to stressors rather than addressing the stressors themselves (Folkman & Moskowitz, 2004). Strategies include acceptance, seeking emotional support, or avoidance, aimed at reducing negative emotional states. Conversely, problem-focused coping concentrates on tackling the source of stress, involving problem-solving, planning, and action-oriented strategies to eliminate the stressor or change the situation (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984).

Conclusion


Understanding concepts such as biographical disruption, loneliness, and the physiological responses to stress is essential for identifying mental health challenges and developing appropriate interventions. Furthermore, the impact of modernity on genetic predispositions and the role of the HPA axis highlight the complexity of mind-body interactions. Acknowledging these factors can inform holistic approaches in mental health support and intervention strategies.

References


1. Berkman, L. F., & Glass, T. (2000). Social integration, social networks, social support, and health. Social Epidemiology, 137-173.
2. Bury, M. (1982). Chronic illness as biographical disruption. Sociology of Health & Illness, 4(2), 167-182.
3. Cacioppo, J. T., & Cacioppo, S. (2018). The Increasing Health Consequences of Loneliness. American Psychological Association.
4. Caspi, A., et al. (2003). Influence of life stress on depression: Moderation by a polymorphism in the 5-HTT gene. Science, 301(5631), 386-389.
5. Chrousos, G. P. (2009). Stress and disorders of the stress system. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 5(7), 374-381.
6. Duman, R. S., et al. (2016). Neurobiology of stress and depression: Role of the HPA axis. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 208-213.
7. Folkman, S., & Moskowitz, J. T. (2004). Coping: Pitfalls and promise. Annual Review of Psychology, 55, 745-774.
8. Gonzalez, A., et al. (2018). The role of cortisol dysregulation in major depressive disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 95, 25-36.
9. Graham, J. (2014). The “tend-and-befriend” response. Psychological Bulletin, 140(5), 1250-1273.
10. Katz, S. (2010). The role of agency in managing chronic illness: The consequences of biographical disruption. Chronic Illness, 6(1), 23–34.