etiology is

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. Etiology refers to ________

A. a condition that tends to maintain maladaptive behavior.
B. the causal pattern of a disorder.
C. a predisposition toward developing a disorder.
D. a condition that makes it less likely a person will experience the negative consequences of stress.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Etiology refers to the causal pattern of a disorder, explaining the factors contributing to the development of a specific condition. Choice A is incorrect as it describes a condition that maintains maladaptive behavior, which is not the definition of etiology. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to a predisposition, which is more related to risk factors rather than the cause itself. Choice D is incorrect as it discusses a condition that reduces the negative consequences of stress, which is not directly related to the cause of a disorder.

2. Most behavioral disorders are determined primarily by ________.

A. genetics
B. upbringing
C. diet
D. environment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Genetics play a significant role in the development of behavioral disorders. While upbringing, diet, and environment can also influence behavior, genetics are often the primary factor in determining behavioral disorders. Choice B (upbringing) can contribute to behavior but is not the sole determinant of behavioral disorders. Choice C (diet) can impact behavior but is not the primary factor in behavioral disorders. Choice D (environment) can also influence behavior, but genetics typically play a more significant role in determining behavioral disorders.

3. What is the significance of the diathesis-stress model in understanding mental disorders?

A. The diathesis-stress model suggests that stress alone causes mental disorders.
B. The diathesis-stress model suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental stress are necessary for the development of mental disorders.
C. The diathesis-stress model is outdated and irrelevant.
D. The diathesis-stress model focuses only on environmental factors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental stress are necessary for the development of mental disorders, highlighting the interaction between nature and nurture. Choice A is incorrect because the model emphasizes the combined influence of genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors. Choice C is incorrect as the diathesis-stress model remains a valuable framework in understanding mental health. Choice D is incorrect because the model considers both genetic and environmental factors, not solely environmental factors.

4. What is the sequence in which growth starts at the center of the body and moves toward the extremities?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Proximodistal pattern. This pattern describes growth starting at the center of the body and moving towards the extremities. Choice A, Cephalocaudal pattern, refers to growth starting from the head and moving downwards, which is not the sequence described in the question. Choice D, Gene-environment correlation, does not relate to the sequential pattern of growth described in the question, making it incorrect.

5. Where is the site of chemical communication in the brain?

A. Neuron
B. Synapse
C. Axon
D. Dendrite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Synapse. The synapse is the site where chemical communication occurs between neurons. Neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of one neuron, cross the synaptic cleft, and bind to receptors on the dendrites of the next neuron. Choice A, Neuron, is incorrect as it refers to the entire nerve cell. Choices C and D, Axon and Dendrite, are also incorrect as they are specific parts of a neuron and not the primary site of chemical communication.