Lack of REM Sleep:
REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is a crucial stage of sleep where the brain processes and consolidates new information and memories. Lack of REM sleep can hinder Jennifer's ability to adjust to college life as it can affect her cognitive function, memory, and mood. Without enough REM sleep, Jennifer may find it harder to concentrate in class, retain information, and recall what she learned. Additionally, REM sleep is important for emotional regulation, so Jennifer may be more likely to feel anxious or stressed without it. If Jennifer continues to have trouble falling asleep, she may want to speak with a healthcare professional or a sleep specialist to address any underlying issues.
Sympathetic Nervous System:
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response, which can be activated in response to stress. While this response can be helpful in certain situations, chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system can be detrimental to Jennifer's adjustment to college. It can cause her to feel constantly on edge, anxious, or stressed, making it harder for her to relax and focus on her studies. Additionally, prolonged activation of the sympathetic nervous system can lead to physical health problems, such as high blood pressure and weakened immune system. Jennifer may want to consider stress-management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or talking to a therapist to help manage her stress levels.
External Locus of Control:
An external locus of control is a belief that events in life are primarily determined by external factors outside of one's control, rather than personal choices or actions. If Jennifer has an external locus of control, she may feel helpless or powerless to change her circumstances, even if she is struggling with adjusting to college life. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness and apathy, making it harder for her to seek help or take action to improve her situation. Encouraging Jennifer to develop an internal locus of control, where she sees herself as having agency over her life, can help her feel more empowered to take control of her college experience.
Proactive Interference:
Proactive interference occurs when previously learned information interferes with the ability to learn and remember new information. Jennifer's difficulty in finding where her classes meet may be due to proactive interference if she is relying on previously learned information about her high school schedule or campus layout. This can make it harder for her to adjust to the new college environment. Jennifer may benefit from taking a fresh approach to learning the layout of the campus or seeking assistance from a campus guide or advisor to help her navigate her new surroundings.