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. Freud's view of mental disorders was that they were a result of ________.

A. unresolved conflicts between the id, the ego, and the superego.
B. genetic abnormalities that influence people's ability to cope with their environment.
C. problematic tendencies we develop while dealing with our early interpersonal environments.
D. learned maladaptive behaviors that were rewarded with attention.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Freud believed that mental disorders were a result of unresolved conflicts between the id, ego, and superego. This concept is central to Freud's psychoanalytic theory, where conflicts between these three components of personality lead to psychological distress. Choice B is incorrect because Freud focused more on unconscious conflicts rather than genetic abnormalities. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to later psychodynamic theories rather than Freud's specific view. Choice D is incorrect as Freud's perspective does not emphasize learned behaviors as the primary cause of mental disorders.

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

A. Resilience has no impact on mental health outcomes.
B. Resilience can help individuals overcome significant stressors.
C. Resilience is irrelevant to mental health.
D. Resilience is the sole factor that determines mental health outcomes.

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.

5. How do childhood experiences influence adult psychopathology?

A. Childhood experiences have no impact on adult psychopathology.
B. Childhood experiences can have a profound impact on adult psychopathology.
C. Childhood experiences are unrelated to adult psychopathology.
D. Childhood experiences have only a minimal impact on adult psychopathology.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Childhood experiences, such as trauma and attachment issues, can indeed have a profound impact on adult psychopathology. These experiences can shape an individual's psychological development, influencing their mental health and well-being throughout their life. Choice A is incorrect as research shows that childhood experiences do play a significant role in adult psychopathology. Choice C is also incorrect as there is evidence supporting the link between childhood experiences and adult psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because childhood experiences can have more than just a minimal impact on adult psychopathology; they can be quite substantial.