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. What is the significance of early intervention in preventing mental disorders?

A. Early intervention has no significant impact on preventing mental disorders.
B. Early intervention is critical in reducing the risk of developing mental disorders.
C. Early intervention can sometimes exacerbate mental disorders.
D. Early intervention is only effective in severe cases.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Early intervention is crucial in preventing or mitigating the development of mental disorders by addressing issues before they fully develop. Choice A is incorrect because early intervention plays a significant role in preventing mental disorders. Choice C is incorrect as early intervention aims to improve mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect as early intervention is effective across various stages of mental health conditions, not just in severe cases.

3. ______________ are conditions that increase the probability of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient to cause it.

A. Risk factors
B. Contributory causes
C. Sufficient causes
D. Protective factors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct term for conditions that increase the probability of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient to cause it is 'Contributory causes.' Risk factors (Choice A) are conditions that increase the likelihood of a negative outcome but do not imply causation. Sufficient causes (Choice C) are conditions that guarantee the occurrence of a disorder by themselves. Protective factors (Choice D) decrease the likelihood of a disorder rather than increasing it.

4. The humanistic perspective focuses primarily upon the capacity of the individual to ________.

A. confront the dilemma of our deaths.
B. be driven by unconscious motives.
C. rationally explain our behavior.
D. engage in positive self-growth.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The humanistic perspective, as highlighted by proponents like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, emphasizes the inherent drive of individuals to achieve self-actualization and positive self-growth. It focuses on the individual's potential for growth, self-improvement, and fulfilling their highest capabilities. Choice A is incorrect as the humanistic perspective is more concerned with personal growth than with addressing the fear of death. Choice B is associated with the psychodynamic perspective, which focuses on unconscious motives. Choice C is related to cognitive-behavioral approaches that emphasize the rational understanding of behavior.

5. According to John Watson, behavior is governed primarily by?

A. Heredity.
B. Personal motives.
C. The environment.
D. Unconscious desires.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: According to John Watson, behavior is primarily governed by environmental factors. Watson was a behaviorist who emphasized the influence of the environment on behavior. He believed that behavior is shaped by external stimuli and experiences, rather than internal factors like heredity or unconscious desires. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with Watson's perspective on behaviorism.