Glossary A

Ascending reticular activating system (ARAS) refers to a network of neurons in the reticular formation of the brain stem that is responsible for cortical arousal and de-arousal.

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Ascending spinal-thalamic tract refers to a part of human anatomy that carries sensory information related to pain and temperature and runs in parallel to the spinal cord. It synapses over a wide region of the Thalamus, primarily on the intralaminar and ventral posterior nuclei of the thalamus, and then to the somatosensory cortex.

Ascetic refers to a person who denies himself pleasures or comforts (for religious or other reasons).

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Asceticism refers to the practice of a lifestyle that rejects sensual pleasures such as drinking alcohol, eating rich food, or engaging in sex. Moreover, Asceticism refers to an approach to life emphasizing discipline and impulse control.

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Asch situation refers to an experimental procedure developed by Solomon Asch in his studies of conformity to group opinion. Participants believed they were making perceptual judgments as part of a group, but the other members were confederates who made deliberate errors on certain trials.

Ascribed status refers to status, class, rank, or position determined by family lineage, gender, birth order, or skin color.

ASDs is the abbreviations of Autism spectrum disorders which refers to developmental disorders including Autism, Asperger's syndrome, Rett's disorder, and Childhood disintegrative disorder which are characterized by impairment in communication skills, social interactions, and repetitive, stereotyped behavior. ASDs are also referred to as Developmental disorders.

Asexual means "not having sexual interests or abilities."

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