English for Psychologists. 20 articles to expand professional vocabulary

The underlying neurobiological mechanisms of cognitive deficits in psychotic disorders are complex and multifaceted. They involve alterations in brain structure, function, and neurochemical systems.

Brain structure: Reduced brain volume, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala.

Brain function: Abnormal patterns of brain activity, such as hyperactivity in certain regions and hypoactivity in others.

Neurochemical systems: Dysregulation of dopamine, glutamate, and GABA neurotransmitter systems.

Assessment of Cognitive Functioning:

Assessing cognitive functioning in psychotic disorders is essential for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring progress. Standardized neuropsychological batteries are commonly used to measure a wide range of cognitive domains. These batteries can provide a comprehensive profile of cognitive strengths and weaknesses.

Implications for Treatment:

Understanding cognitive deficits in psychotic disorders has important implications for treatment. Cognitive remediation therapy aims to improve cognitive functioning through targeted exercises and training programs. These therapies have shown promise in improving attention, memory, and executive function.

Future Directions:

Ongoing research is investigating the genetic, environmental, and neurodevelopmental factors that contribute to cognitive deficits in psychotic disorders. Advanced neuroimaging

techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), are providing new insights into the neural processes underlying these cognitive impairments.

Conclusion:

Investigating cognitive functioning in psychotic disorders is crucial for understanding the nature and severity of these impairments. By elucidating the neurobiological basis of cognitive deficits, we can develop more effective interventions to improve the quality of life for individuals with these conditions.

WORDLIST:

– psychotic disorders – психотические расстройства

– profound alterations – глубокие изменения

– impaired cognitive functioning – нарушение когнитивных функций

– core symptom – основной симптом

– significantly impacts – существенно влияет

– cognitive deficits – когнитивные нарушения

– effective interventions – эффективные вмешательства

– attention and executive function – внимание и исполнительные функции

– difficulty sustaining attention – трудности с поддержанием внимания

– reduced verbal fluency – снижение вербальной

беглости

– impaired comprehension – нарушение понимания

– complex and multifaceted – сложные и многогранные

– reduced brain volume – уменьшение объема мозга

– abnormal patterns of brain activity – аномальные

паттерны мозговой активности

– cognitive domains – когнитивные области

– cognitive remediation therapy – когнитивная

реабилитационная терапия

– targeted exercises – целевые упражнения

– executive function – исполнительная функция

– ongoing research – текущие исследования

– advanced neuroimaging techniques – передовые нейровизуализационные методы

– cognitive impairments – когнитивные нарушения

– elucidating the neurobiological basis of cognitive

deficits – выяснение нейробиологической основы когнитивных нарушений

UNIT 5

The role of positive psychology in promoting well-being

Positive psychology is a relatively new field of study that focuses on the strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive. It is based on the belief that people are not simply the sum of their weaknesses, but rather have the potential for great happiness and fulfillment.

Positive psychology research has identified a number of factors that contribute to well-being, including:

Positive emotions: Positive emotions, such as joy, gratitude, and love, are associated with a number of benefits, including improved physical health, increased resilience, and better relationships.

Strengths and virtues: Strengths and virtues, such as optimism, resilience, and gratitude, are associated with greater happiness and well-being.

Meaning and purpose: Having a sense of meaning and purpose in life is essential for well-being. It gives us a sense of direction and motivation, and helps us to feel connected to something larger than ourselves.

Social relationships: Strong social relationships are essential for well-being. They provide us with love, support, and a sense of belonging.

Positive psychology interventions are designed to help people build on their strengths and virtues, and to cultivate positive emotions and experiences. These interventions have been shown to be effective in improving well-being, reducing stress, and promoting resilience.

One of the most well-known positive psychology interventions is the gratitude intervention. This intervention involves writing down three things that you are grateful for each day. Research has shown that this simple practice can lead to significant increases in happiness and well-being.