biological explanations of human attraction
What does MHC in MHC genes stand for?
Major Histocompatibility Complex
In Beck’s theory, what deeper cognitive structures generate and maintain the triad’s automatic negative thoughts?
negative thoughts
Twin and family studies use this concept to estimate the proportion of variation in depression risk linked to genetic differences (not destiny for an individual).
heritability
Which brain structure involved in memory and stress regulation is commonly linked to chronic stress effects in MDD discussions?
hippocampus
pick me! choose me! love me!
OH NO! Unrequited love it seems… minus 300 points!
Wedekind’s “sweaty T-shirt” study, what kind of MHC pairing tended to be preferred (especially when not on hormonal contraception)?
MHC-dissimilar partners
What cognitive bias makes you overgeneralize from one positive trait (attractive) to many others (kind, smart, trustworthy)?
halo effect
This thinking pattern—common in depression—keeps attention locked on distress and strengthens negative interpretations over time.
Rumination
What term describes the rapid, involuntary negative thoughts that pop up in MDD (e.g., “I’m worthless”)?
Automatic negative thoughts (ANTs)
You shouldnt pick me, i WILL surprise you
I told you it was a surprise! 1000 points!
In the biological approach, what term refers to hormones/pheromones influencing behavior by binding to receptors and triggering a response?
agonist effect
What cognitive discomfort may occur if we keep investing time/money into someone we’re not sure we like, and what’s the likely “fix”?
Cognitive Dissonance
This model explains depression as emerging when a vulnerability (genes/schemas) is activated by stress (life events).
Diathesis–stress model
What concept describes environmental experiences changing gene expression without changing DNA sequence in MDD risk?
epigeneitcs
are you sure?
BINGO! TRADE POINTS AGAIN
Which neuropeptide is especially linked to pair-bonding and mate-guarding behaviors in male mammalian models?
Vasopressin
What cognitive theory explains attraction via a cost–benefit evaluation of a relationship (rewards, costs, comparisons)?
Social Exchange Theory
This prefrontal region is central to valuation and decision-making; altered functioning is linked with negative bias and impaired reward evaluation.
Ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC)
MDD, what term describes a stress-linked reduction in the brain’s ability to form new synaptic connections and adapt?
Reduced neuroplasticity
this will be a bad choice
i didnt lie! minus 100 points
What is the name of the brain’s reward-related structure commonly discussed in attraction/love neuroimaging because it responds strongly to rewarding stimuli?
Ventral tegmental area (VTA)
What cognitive bias explains why we overestimate how much someone likes us when we already find them attractive?
Confirmation bias
researcher argues depression risk emerges when a biological vulnerability changes how strongly a person’s body reacts to stress, and that stress then alters gene expression long-term, producing hippocampal changes and persistent negative cognition. Name the integrated etiology framework and the two key mechanisms being described.
Diathesis–stress model; gene–environment interaction; epigenetic change.
In MDD, what key confound can make cortisol findings inconsistent if not controlled, especially in female samples?
Menstrual cycle phase / hormonal contraception (also sleep/stress timing)
Your best option yet!
Trade points with a desired team. Congrats! or… bad luck