immune function in psychology refers to the interactions between the immune system and psychological processes, such as stress, cognition, and emotion. The immune system is a complex network of cells and molecules that protect the body from disease and damage. Psychological stress can affect immune function in various ways, depending on the type, duration, and intensity of the stressor, as well as the individual’s coping resources and personality traits.
Some stressors can enhance immune function by activating adaptive responses, while others can impair immune function by causing chronic inflammation or immunosuppression. immune function can also influence psychological processes, such as mood, motivation, and memory, by modulating neural activity and neurotransmitter levels. Therefore, immune function in psychology is an important topic for understanding the bidirectional links between physical and mental health.
Some references that support this claim are:
– Worth, P., & Smith, M. D. (2021). Clearing the pathways to self-transcendence. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 648381.
– Positive Psychology (2023). What is self-transcendence? Definition and 6 examples (+PDF).
– Verywell Health (n.d.). How the immune system works.
– Medical News Today (2023). The immune system: Cells, tissues, function, and disease.
– Johns Hopkins Medicine (n.d.). The immune system.
