how does genetic predisposition influence mental health

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test

1. How does genetic predisposition influence mental health?

A. Genetic predisposition guarantees the development of mental disorders.
B. Genetic predisposition plays a role but is not the sole determinant of mental health.
C. Genetic predisposition does not influence mental health.
D. Genetic predisposition determines mental health without exception.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic predisposition indeed plays a significant role in influencing mental health by increasing the risk of developing certain disorders. However, it is crucial to note that it is not the sole determinant. Mental health is also influenced by various environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and individual experiences. Option A is incorrect because genetic predisposition does not guarantee the development of mental disorders; it only predisposes individuals to a higher risk. Option C is incorrect as genetic predisposition does have an influence on mental health. Option D is incorrect because mental health is a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and other factors.

2. Undercontrolled behavior tends to be seen in American children, whereas overcontrolled behavior is seen in Thai children.

A. Aggressive behavior; calm behavior
B. Overcontrolled behavior; undercontrolled behavior
C. Undercontrolled behavior; overcontrolled behavior
D. Equal behavioral traits in both cultures.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Undercontrolled behavior; overcontrolled behavior.' The question highlights a cultural difference in behavior tendencies between American and Thai children. American children are usually characterized by undercontrolled behavior, while Thai children tend to exhibit overcontrolled behavior. Choice A (Aggressive behavior; calm behavior) is incorrect as the question does not mention aggressive or calm behavior as the contrasting traits between the two groups. Choice B (Overcontrolled behavior; undercontrolled behavior) is incorrect because the described behavior patterns are reversed based on the question's context. Choice D (Equal behavioral traits in both cultures) is incorrect as the question explicitly states differing behavior patterns in American and Thai children.

3. What are some common methods used to study genetic influences on behavior?

A. Genetic influences are studied only through twin studies.
B. Common methods include twin studies, adoption studies, and gene mapping.
C. Genetic influences on behavior are only studied through family history.
D. Genetic influences on behavior are not well understood.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Common methods used to study genetic influences on behavior include twin studies, adoption studies, and gene mapping. Twin studies help to compare the similarities between identical and fraternal twins to estimate the heritability of a trait. Adoption studies look at the similarities between adopted children and their biological and adoptive parents to determine genetic influences. Gene mapping involves identifying specific genes associated with certain behaviors. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because genetic influences on behavior are not solely studied through twin studies or family history, and while the understanding of genetic influences may vary, there are established methods to study them.

4. If a pair of monozygotic twins raised in the same environment end up being different from one another (e.g., interests, hobbies, etc.), it is highly likely due to:

A. Cephalocaudal pattern
B. Proximodistal pattern
C. Cephamodistal pattern
D. Gene-environment correlation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Proximodistal pattern. Differences between monozygotic twins raised in the same environment are likely due to non-shared environmental influences, which lead to differences in interests, hobbies, and other individual characteristics. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Cephalocaudal pattern refers to the principle of development from head to toe, not relevant in explaining differences between twins. Cephamodistal pattern is not a recognized developmental term. Gene-environment correlation does not directly explain the differences between identical twins raised in the same environment.

5. Which of the following is true about subjective distress?

A. All individuals with mental illness experience some degree of distress
B. Distress is the only criterion in diagnosing abnormality
C. Its presence is enough for a clinician to determine if someone has a mental illness
D. Some individuals with a mental disorder may not experience subjective distress

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Subjective distress is not universal among individuals with a mental disorder. Choice A is incorrect as not all individuals with mental illness experience distress. Choice B is incorrect because distress is just one of the criteria used in diagnosing abnormality, not the only one. Choice C is incorrect because the presence of subjective distress alone is not sufficient for a clinician to determine if someone has a mental illness.