how does the diathesis stress model explain the onset of mental disorders

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Final Exam

1. How does the diathesis-stress model explain the onset of mental disorders?

A. Stress alone is sufficient to cause mental disorders.
B. Both genetic vulnerability and environmental stress are needed to trigger a disorder.
C. Only genetic factors cause mental disorders.
D. Environmental stressors alone can cause mental disorders.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model explains that the onset of mental disorders results from the interaction of genetic vulnerability (diathesis) and environmental stress. Choice A is incorrect because stress alone is not sufficient, according to the model. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies by attributing mental disorders solely to genetic factors. Choice D is incorrect because the model emphasizes the joint contribution of genetic predisposition and environmental stress.

2. An elementary school principal wants to know the best predictors of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school in high school so she can provide preventive interventions. Your best advice is ________.

A. Look for kids who are very popular because they are class clowns.
B. Silent, depressed, loners tend to be dropouts because they are often depressed.
C. There is no way to predict juvenile delinquency as early as elementary school.
D. The best predictor is aggression toward peers, which leads to peer rejection.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best advice is to look for aggression toward peers as the best predictor of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school. Option A is incorrect because being popular or a class clown doesn't necessarily indicate delinquency. Option B is incorrect as not all silent, depressed loners end up as dropouts. Option C is incorrect as research shows that early signs of aggression can predict future delinquent behavior and school dropout rates, making it feasible to intervene early.

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. Scientific research has demonstrated the __________ parenting style is most likely to lead to healthy psychological development in children.

A. Authoritarian
B. Permissive
C. Authoritative
D. Neglectful

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Scientific research has demonstrated that the authoritative parenting style is most likely to lead to healthy psychological development in children. Authoritative parents are responsive to their children's emotional needs, set clear boundaries, and encourage independence. This balance fosters a positive environment for children to thrive emotionally and psychologically. Authoritarian parenting (choice A) focuses on strict rules without much warmth, which can lead to obedience but may hinder emotional development. Permissive parenting (choice B) lacks structure and rules, potentially resulting in children feeling insecure. Neglectful parenting (choice D) is characterized by a lack of responsiveness and involvement, leading to various negative outcomes for the child's development.

5. The site of chemical communication in the brain is the ________.

A. neuron
B. synapse
C. axon
D. dendrite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The synapse is the correct answer. It is the site where communication between neurons occurs through the release and reception of neurotransmitters. Choice A, neuron, is incorrect as it is the cell itself rather than a specific site of communication. Choice C, axon, is also incorrect as it is a part of the neuron that transmits signals away from the cell body. Choice D, dendrite, is not the correct answer either, as dendrites receive signals from other neurons but do not release neurotransmitters for communication.