behaviors that deviate from the norm are

ATI RN

Exam 4 Psychology

1. Behaviors that deviate from the norm are?

A. Always seen as a disorder if they violate social norms
B. Considered a disorder regardless of culture
C. Typically seen as a disorder when they impair functioning
D. Never considered as a sign of abnormality

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Behaviors that deviate from the norm are typically considered disorders when they impair functioning. Choice A is incorrect because not all behaviors that deviate from the norm are considered disorders; they need to impair functioning. Choice B is incorrect because the cultural context plays a significant role in determining what is considered abnormal. Choice D is incorrect because behaviors that deviate from the norm can indeed be considered signs of abnormality, especially if they impair functioning.

2. What term refers to the mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge?

A. Cognition.
B. Pedagogy.
C. Empiricism.
D. Introspection.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, cognition. Cognition encompasses mental processes like thinking, remembering, and problem-solving, all crucial in acquiring knowledge. Pedagogy (choice B) refers to the method and practice of teaching. Empiricism (choice C) is a theory that states knowledge comes from sensory experience. Introspection (choice D) involves examining one's own conscious thoughts and feelings, not specifically focused on acquiring knowledge.

3. Which of the following statements about brain dysfunction and psychiatric disorders is correct?

A. Identifiable brain damage is often the cause of psychiatric disorders.
B. Brain damage may decrease the risk of developing a psychiatric condition.
C. Changes in brain function appear to play a role in many psychiatric disorders.
D. Brain development can be altered by experience, always leading to changes in the brain that decrease the risk of developing a psychiatric condition.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement is C: 'Changes in brain function appear to play a role in many psychiatric disorders.' This statement is accurate as research suggests that alterations in brain function are associated with various psychiatric disorders. Option A is incorrect because while brain damage can contribute to some psychiatric conditions, it is not always the primary cause. Option B is incorrect as brain damage typically increases the risk of developing psychiatric disorders. Option D is incorrect because while brain development can be influenced by experiences, it does not always decrease the risk of psychiatric conditions.

4. Why does the selection of a theoretical perspective of mental disorders matter?

A. Because it determines how data is interpreted, and influences treatment approaches.
B. It matters because different perspectives offer different insights into the causes and treatments of mental disorders.
C. The selection of a theoretical perspective is not important as all perspectives lead to the same treatment outcomes.
D. Theoretical perspectives are only relevant for academic research, not for clinical practice.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The selection of a theoretical perspective matters because it determines how data is interpreted and influences the treatment approaches that are considered appropriate. Choice B is incorrect because different perspectives may lead to different interpretations and treatment strategies. Choice C is incorrect because different theoretical perspectives can result in varied treatment outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because theoretical perspectives play a crucial role in both academic research and clinical practice.

5. A predisposition toward developing a disorder is termed a __________ .

A. Diathesis
B. Risk factor
C. Sufficient cause
D. Diathesis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A predisposition toward developing a disorder is termed a diathesis. In this context, diathesis refers to an individual's susceptibility or predisposition to developing a disorder. A diathesis is not the same as a risk factor or a sufficient cause. A risk factor is a variable that increases the likelihood of developing a disorder but is not a predisposition itself. A sufficient cause is a factor that can produce the disorder on its own, not just a predisposition.