explain the diathesis stress model
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Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test

1. What does the diathesis-stress model entail?

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.

2. Why is it particularly useful to study identical twins who were raised in different environments?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Studying identical twins raised in different environments allows researchers to understand the impact of genetics versus environmental factors on traits. Choice A is incorrect because differences in brain function can be influenced by a variety of factors and not solely by environmental differences. Choice B is incorrect as concordance rates tend to be higher in identical twins reared together due to shared genetics and environment. Choice C is incorrect because genetics do not change due to being raised in different environments.

3. How can resilience impact the likelihood of developing a mental disorder?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Resilience plays a crucial role in mental health outcomes by enabling individuals to navigate and overcome stressors effectively, thus reducing the probability of developing mental disorders. Choice A is incorrect as resilience does have a positive impact on mental health. Choice C is incorrect as resilience is highly relevant to mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because while resilience is important, it is not the only factor influencing mental health.

4. How does stress impact brain function?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Stress can lead to changes in brain structure and function, affecting mental health and increasing the risk of disorders. Choice A is incorrect as stress does affect brain function. Choice C is incorrect as stress generally has negative impacts on brain function rather than improving it. Choice D is incorrect because stress can have long-term impacts on brain function through structural and functional changes.

5. While out for a walk, you come across a ferocious dog. You feel your heart beating faster and your palms begin to sweat. Which part of the peripheral nervous system is activated in this situation?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sympathetic. When encountering a stressful situation like a ferocious dog, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the 'fight or flight' response. This response triggers physiological changes like increased heart rate, sweating, and heightened alertness to prepare the body to deal with the perceived threat. The autonomic nervous system (Choice A) encompasses both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, so it's a broader category. The parasympathetic nervous system (Choice C) is responsible for the body's 'rest and digest' functions, which are opposite to the physiological changes seen in a stress response. The somatic nervous system (Choice D) controls voluntary movements and sensory information, not the physiological responses seen in a stress reaction.

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