AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Psychoactive drugs alter brain function, resulting in temporary changes in mood, perception, and behavior. These drugs may be used recreationally to intentionally alter one’s consciousness, as entheogens (Ruck et al., 1979) for ritual or spiritual purposes, or as medication.

Detailed explanation-2: -Examples of psychoactive substances include alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, marijuana, and certain pain medicines. Many illegal drugs, such as heroin, LSD, cocaine, and amphetamines are also psychoactive substances.

Detailed explanation-3: -Psychoactive drugs are substances that, when taken in or administered into one’s system, affect mental processes, e.g. perception, consciousness, cognition or mood and emotions. Psychoactive drugs belong to a broader category of psychoactive substances that include also alcohol and nicotine.

Detailed explanation-4: -Psychotropic refers to a substance that affects your mental state and ability to cognitively function. Psychoactive refers to a substance that passes your blood-brain barrier. So while both have an effect on your brain and its function, not all psychoactive substances are psychotropic.