how do defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. How do defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology?

A. They do not contribute to psychopathology as they are healthy coping mechanisms.
B. They contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities.
C. Defense mechanisms have no connection to psychopathology.
D. Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies that can lead to the development of psychopathology.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities. This avoidance can prevent individuals from dealing with underlying issues, leading to the development or exacerbation of psychopathological conditions. Choice A is incorrect because while defense mechanisms may serve as coping mechanisms, they can also contribute to psychopathology when used excessively or inappropriately. Choice C is incorrect as defense mechanisms are indeed connected to psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because defense mechanisms, when maladaptive, can contribute to psychopathology rather than being considered healthy coping strategies.

2. Cortisol is a hormone that ________.

A. is released by the hypothalamus and travels to the pituitary gland, causing it to respond.
B. the pituitary gland releases to stimulate the adrenal gland.
C. the adrenal gland produces that mobilizes the body to deal with stress.
D. reduces the reuptake of the monoamine neurotransmitters.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland that mobilizes the body to deal with stress. Therefore, choice C is the correct answer. Choices A and B are incorrect as they inaccurately describe the origin and function of cortisol. Choice D is also incorrect as it describes the action of a different type of substance, not cortisol.

3. Why does the selection of a theoretical perspective of mental disorders matter?

A. Because it determines how data is interpreted, and influences treatment approaches.
B. It matters because different perspectives offer different insights into the causes and treatments of mental disorders.
C. The selection of a theoretical perspective is not important as all perspectives lead to the same treatment outcomes.
D. Theoretical perspectives are only relevant for academic research, not for clinical practice.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The selection of a theoretical perspective matters because it determines how data is interpreted and influences the treatment approaches that are considered appropriate. Choice B is incorrect because different perspectives may lead to different interpretations and treatment strategies. Choice C is incorrect because different theoretical perspectives can result in varied treatment outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because theoretical perspectives play a crucial role in both academic research and clinical practice.

4. What is the branch of psychology concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders called?

A. Industrial psychology.
B. Social psychology.
C. Developmental psychology.
D. Clinical psychology.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Clinical psychology. Clinical psychology specifically deals with the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders. Industrial psychology (choice A) focuses on behavior in the workplace, social psychology (choice B) studies how people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others, and developmental psychology (choice C) is the study of how and why people change over time.

5. Neural plasticity is ________.

A. the process by which neurotransmitters are broken down in the brain.
B. the flexibility of the brain—existing neural circuits can change or new ones can be made.
C. strong evidence of brain damage, leading to the development of a mental disorder.
D. the best indicator of temperament and its effect on the personality development of a child.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Neural plasticity refers to the brain's flexibility to change existing neural circuits or create new ones. Choice A is incorrect as it describes neurotransmitter breakdown, not neural plasticity. Choice C is incorrect because neural plasticity does not necessarily indicate brain damage leading to mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect because neural plasticity is not specifically related to temperament or personality development in children.