how do defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. How do defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology?

A. They do not contribute to psychopathology as they are healthy coping mechanisms.
B. They contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities.
C. Defense mechanisms have no connection to psychopathology.
D. Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies that can lead to the development of psychopathology.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities. This avoidance can prevent individuals from dealing with underlying issues, leading to the development or exacerbation of psychopathological conditions. Choice A is incorrect because while defense mechanisms may serve as coping mechanisms, they can also contribute to psychopathology when used excessively or inappropriately. Choice C is incorrect as defense mechanisms are indeed connected to psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because defense mechanisms, when maladaptive, can contribute to psychopathology rather than being considered healthy coping strategies.

2. When the parent returned in the strange situation experiment, babies with ____ attachment tend to remain upset for long periods of time, kicking, screaming, refusing to be distracted with toys, and sometimes arching back and away from contact?

A. Secure
B. Avoidant
C. Ambivalent
D. Disorganized

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the strange situation experiment, babies with ambivalent attachment display distress and have difficulty calming down when a parent returns. They may kick, scream, refuse toys, and show signs of physical discomfort or resistance. This behavior is characteristic of ambivalent attachment, where the infant shows mixed emotions and finds it hard to be soothed by the returning parent. Secure attachment (Choice A) refers to babies who seek comfort from the parent but can be soothed upon return. Avoidant attachment (Choice B) involves babies showing little emotion upon reunion with the parent. Disorganized attachment (Choice D) displays inconsistent or confused behaviors in the strange situation experiment.

3. How does stress impact brain function?

A. Stress has no effect on brain function.
B. Stress can lead to changes in brain structure and function.
C. Stress can improve brain function.
D. Stress has no long-term impact on 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.

4. Who is credited with establishing psychology as a distinct scientific field, separate from other disciplines?

A. G. Stanley Hall
B. René Descartes
C. William James
D. Wilhelm Wundt

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Wilhelm Wundt is the correct answer as he is credited with establishing psychology as a distinct scientific field. Wundt founded the first laboratory dedicated to experimental psychology in 1879, which marked the beginning of psychology as a separate discipline. While the other individuals mentioned in the choices have made significant contributions to the field of psychology, Wilhelm Wundt is specifically known for his pioneering work in establishing psychology as a unique and independent discipline.

5. Which of the following characteristics best describes differences between bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa?

A. Individuals with anorexia nervosa do not have as severe health risks as individuals with bulimia nervosa have.
B. Individuals with bulimia nervosa may have a normal body weight.
C. Individuals with anorexia nervosa have been known to binge like those with bulimia nervosa on occasion.
D. Only those with bulimia nervosa display compensatory behaviors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Individuals with bulimia nervosa may maintain a normal body weight, while anorexia nervosa is often associated with severe underweight. Choice A is incorrect because individuals with anorexia nervosa actually face severe health risks due to malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications. Choice C is incorrect as anorexia nervosa is characterized by restriction of food intake rather than binge eating. Choice D is incorrect as individuals with anorexia nervosa can also display compensatory behaviors such as excessive exercise or fasting.