etiology is

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. Etiology refers to ________

A. a condition that tends to maintain maladaptive behavior.
B. the causal pattern of a disorder.
C. a predisposition toward developing a disorder.
D. a condition that makes it less likely a person will experience the negative consequences of stress.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Etiology refers to the causal pattern of a disorder, explaining the factors contributing to the development of a specific condition. Choice A is incorrect as it describes a condition that maintains maladaptive behavior, which is not the definition of etiology. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to a predisposition, which is more related to risk factors rather than the cause itself. Choice D is incorrect as it discusses a condition that reduces the negative consequences of stress, which is not directly related to the cause of a disorder.

2. Dr. Kali works with clients to help them learn deep relaxation. Next, he has them list their fears from least to most anxiety-provoking. Finally, Dr. Kali slowly exposes his clients to each of their fears and assists them in gaining control of their anxiety. His approach is best known as?

A. Systematic desensitization
B. Aversion therapy
C. Flooding
D. Fear therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, systematic desensitization. This therapy involves a step-by-step exposure to feared stimuli, helping individuals manage and reduce their anxiety. In this case, Dr. Kali's method of listing fears from least to most anxiety-provoking and gradually exposing clients to them aligns with the principles of systematic desensitization. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Aversion therapy involves associating an undesirable behavior with an unpleasant stimulus, flooding involves immediate and intense exposure to feared stimuli, and 'fear therapy' is a broad term that does not specifically describe the systematic exposure and relaxation techniques used in systematic desensitization.

3. What does the diathesis-stress model entail?

A. The diathesis-stress model suggests that stress alone is sufficient to cause a mental disorder.
B. The diathesis-stress model involves a combination of genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors.
C. The diathesis-stress model suggests that genetic factors alone cause mental disorders.
D. The diathesis-stress model suggests that stressors in the environment do not affect the onset of mental disorders.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model proposes that mental disorders develop from a combination of genetic vulnerability (the diathesis) and environmental stressors. Choice A is incorrect because it states that stress alone can cause mental disorders, which is not in line with the model. Choice C is incorrect as it simplifies the model to genetic factors alone causing mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests that environmental stressors do not play a role in the onset of mental disorders, which contradicts the essence of the diathesis-stress model.

4. Sandy took part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, where two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three spectators. For approximately 2 weeks after the marathon, Sandy was unable to sleep or concentrate and often found herself reliving the moment she heard the bombs explode. What disorder might Sandy be diagnosed with?

A. Posttraumatic stress disorder
B. Phobic disorder
C. Panic disorder
D. Acute stress disorder

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sandy might be diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD typically develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing the event, avoidance of reminders of the event, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened reactivity. While acute stress disorder can occur shortly after a traumatic event, the duration of symptoms in the scenario suggests a more prolonged impact, aligning with PTSD. Phobic disorder and panic disorder are not as closely related to the described symptoms as PTSD.

5. When Ryan was born, the hospital assessed his health with the Apgar scale, and the score was 5. What does this mean with respect to his breathing pattern?

A. He was not in danger
B. He needed help in establishing a breathing pattern
C. He was in excellent condition
D. He was in critical condition

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An Apgar score of 5 suggests that Ryan needed help establishing a regular breathing pattern after birth. Choice A is incorrect because a score of 5 indicates the need for assistance. Choice C is incorrect as an Apgar score of 5 does not reflect excellent condition. Choice D is incorrect as it signifies a critical condition, which is not the case with an Apgar score of 5.