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. What is a culture-bound disorder?

A. It is a disorder seen universally across all cultures.
B. It is a disorder that exists in one culture but is completely absent in others.
C. It is a disorder that only affects children.
D. It is a disorder found exclusively within certain age groups.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A culture-bound disorder is a condition that is specific to a particular culture or group of cultures and is not universally recognized or experienced across different cultures. Choice A is incorrect because a culture-bound disorder is not seen universally across all cultures. Choice C is incorrect because it does not necessarily have to only affect children. Choice D is incorrect as a culture-bound disorder is not exclusively found within certain age groups, but rather tied to specific cultures.

3. Which orientation focuses on symptoms rather than looking at underlying causes?

A. Psychodynamic
B. Adlerian
C. Jungian
D. Behavioral

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Psychodynamic. The psychodynamic orientation focuses on symptoms rather than underlying causes, emphasizing the importance of the unconscious mind. This approach views symptoms as manifestations of underlying psychological issues rooted in the unconscious. Choice B, Adlerian, is focused on individual psychology, social interests, and the importance of feelings of inferiority. Choice C, Jungian, is based on analytical psychology and the concepts of the collective unconscious and archetypes. Choice D, Behavioral, concentrates on observable behaviors and how they are learned and reinforced through interactions with the environment, rather than focusing on underlying causes.

4. Michael, age 16, has recently gained a considerable amount of weight but has not grown any taller. His father experienced a similar pattern of growth when he was a teenager. Theorists who suggest that Michael’s growth pattern was inherited from his father emphasize the ________ side of the nature-nurture debate?

A. Nature
B. Nurture
C. Environmental
D. Experiential

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A: Nature.' In this scenario, the emphasis is on the genetic inheritance of the growth pattern from father to son, highlighting the role of nature in determining physical characteristics. Choice B, 'Nurture,' focuses on environmental influences, which are not the primary factor in this case. Choice C, 'Environmental,' is similar to 'Nurture' and does not address the genetic aspect mentioned. Choice D, 'Experiential,' pertains more to the learning and experiential aspects rather than genetic inheritance, making it an incorrect choice.

5. How did philosopher John Locke characterize the mind of a child?

A. Innately good
B. Conscientiousness
C. Superego-ideal
D. A blank slate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Philosopher John Locke characterized the mind of a child as a 'blank slate,' indicating that it is devoid of innate ideas or characteristics. This concept suggests that a child's mind is shaped and developed through experiences and learning rather than having inherent qualities. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as Locke did not view the mind of a child as innately good, conscientious, or associated with the superego-ideal. Instead, he believed that individuals are born without built-in mental content, emphasizing the importance of environmental influences on cognitive development.