Nursing Elites

1. What is the diathesis-stress model of psychopathology?

• A. The idea that stress is the primary cause of psychopathology.
• B. A model that focuses solely on genetic predispositions.
• C. A theory that involves only environmental factors in the development of disorders.
• D. A person must have both a vulnerability for a disorder and exposure to stressors to develop the disorder.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model of psychopathology posits that individuals must have a vulnerability or predisposition to a disorder (diathesis) and be exposed to stressful environmental factors for the disorder to manifest. This model emphasizes the interaction between genetic or biological vulnerabilities (diathesis) and environmental stressors. Choice A is incorrect because the model does not suggest that stress is the sole cause of psychopathology. Choice B is incorrect as the model considers both genetic predispositions and environmental stressors. Choice C is incorrect because the diathesis-stress model acknowledges the role of both genetic and environmental factors in the development of disorders.

2. Charles has suffered from schizophrenia for many years and now resides in a group treatment facility. One day a nurse approaches him and quietly tells him that his sister, who has been fighting cancer for many months, died that morning. Charles has no appreciable facial reaction and in a very monotone voice says, 'okay.' The nurse is not surprised by Charles's lack of response to the awful news because she knows that _________ is one symptom often seen in those suffering from schizophrenia?

• A. Clang associations
• B. Echolalia
• C. Blunted affect
• D. Perseveration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In individuals with schizophrenia, blunted affect, or reduced emotional expression, is a common symptom. In this scenario, Charles's lack of emotional response upon hearing about his sister's death aligns with the characteristic of blunted affect. This symptom can manifest as a limited range of facial expressions, monotone voice, and reduced display of emotions. Choice A, 'Clang associations,' refers to a thought disorder characterized by the use of words that sound alike but are not logically connected. Choice B, 'Echolalia,' is the repetition of words spoken by others. Choice D, 'Perseveration,' is the persistent repetition of a response or behavior even when it is no longer appropriate.

3. A male college student begins feeling sad and lonely. Although still able to go to classes and work at his job, he finds himself feeling down much of the time and worrying about what is happening to him. Which part of the definition of abnormality applies to his situation?

• A. Personal distress
• B. Cultural factors
• C. Impaired functioning
• D. Violation of societal norms

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Personal distress. In this scenario, the student is experiencing personal distress as he feels sad and lonely, despite being able to function in his daily life. Personal distress is a key criterion for determining abnormality as it signifies significant emotional discomfort. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as cultural factors, impaired functioning, and violation of societal norms are not the primary factors highlighted in the student's situation.

4. Distinguish between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes of abnormal behavior.

• A. Necessary causes are required for a disorder to develop but do not guarantee it.
• B. Sufficient causes guarantee a disorder will develop, but they are not required.
• C. Contributory causes increase the likelihood of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient.
• D. Contributory causes are conditions that guarantee the occurrence of a disorder.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In understanding abnormal behavior, it is crucial to differentiate between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes. Necessary causes are those that are required for a disorder to develop, meaning that without them, the disorder would not occur. However, their presence does not guarantee the occurrence of the disorder. Sufficient causes, on the other hand, are those that alone can guarantee the development of a disorder, but they are not the only factors that can lead to it. Contributory causes are factors that increase the likelihood of a disorder but are not essential on their own nor do they guarantee the disorder. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the role of necessary causes in the development of abnormal behavior. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they misrepresent the definitions and roles of sufficient and contributory causes in causing abnormal behavior.

5. Latresha is not hungry, is extremely tired, and doesn't feel like doing much of anything. She often feels that life is just hopeless. These symptoms have been going on for 2 months now. She probably is suffering from which mood disorder?

• A. Generalized anxiety disorder
• B. Bipolar disorder
• C. Major depressive disorder
• D. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Major Depressive Disorder. Latresha's symptoms of prolonged sadness, fatigue, and lack of interest in activities lasting for 2 months indicate a major depressive episode. Generalized anxiety disorder (A) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety, not necessarily prolonged sadness. Bipolar disorder (B) involves episodes of both mania and depression, not solely prolonged sadness. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (D) is characterized by obsessions and compulsions, not the symptoms described in the scenario.

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