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. 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.

3. What is the relationship between socioeconomic status and the prevalence of abnormal behavior?

A. Socioeconomic status does not affect the prevalence of abnormal behavior.
B. There is a positive correlation between low socioeconomic status and a higher prevalence of abnormal behavior.
C. Higher socioeconomic status is associated with a lower prevalence of abnormal behavior.
D. Socioeconomic status and the prevalence of abnormal behavior are unrelated.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. There is a positive correlation between low socioeconomic status and a higher prevalence of abnormal behavior. Individuals with lower socioeconomic status may face more stressors, reduced access to mental health resources, and other challenges that can contribute to a higher prevalence of abnormal behavior. Choice A is incorrect because socioeconomic status does affect the prevalence of abnormal behavior. Choice C is incorrect because higher socioeconomic status is not associated with a lower prevalence of abnormal behavior. Choice D is incorrect as there is a clear relationship between socioeconomic status and the prevalence of abnormal behavior.

4. Normal human cells have ________

A. twenty-two chromosome pairs and one pair of sex chromosomes.
B. twenty-one trisomy chromosome pairs, one autosomal pair, and one pair of sex chromosomes.
C. twenty-one chromosome pairs and two trisomy chromosome pairs.
D. twenty-three chromosome pairs.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Normal human cells have twenty-two chromosome pairs and one pair of sex chromosomes. This is the correct answer as it accurately describes the typical chromosome count in human cells. Choice B is incorrect because it mentions 'twenty-one trisomy chromosome pairs,' which is not characteristic of normal cells. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests having 'two trisomy chromosome pairs,' which is abnormal. Choice D is incorrect as it states 'twenty-three chromosome pairs,' which is not the standard count in normal human cells.

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.