how do neurotransmitters affect behavior and mental processes

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test

1. How do neurotransmitters affect behavior and mental processes?

A. Neurotransmitters have little effect on behavior.
B. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that influence mood, thought, and behavior.
C. Neurotransmitters have a minor role in mental health.
D. Neurotransmitters determine intelligence levels.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that influence mood, thought, and behavior, playing a significant role in mental health. Choice A is incorrect as neurotransmitters do have a notable effect on behavior. Choice C is incorrect as neurotransmitters have a major role in mental health. Choice D is incorrect as neurotransmitters do not solely determine intelligence levels.

2. How does abuse and maltreatment tend to affect a child's ability to relate to others?

A. It leads to the development of strong, healthy relationships.
B. It results in difficulty forming healthy relationships later in life.
C. It has little to no impact on a child's social development.
D. It promotes independence in forming new relationships.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Abuse and maltreatment tend to result in difficulties in forming healthy relationships and may lead to a disorganized and disoriented attachment style. Choice A is incorrect because abuse and maltreatment usually hinder the development of strong and healthy relationships. Choice C is incorrect as abuse and maltreatment significantly impact a child's social development. Choice D is incorrect because abuse and maltreatment do not promote independence in forming new relationships but rather create barriers to forming healthy connections.

3. Newer psychodynamic perspectives ________.

A. disregard most elements of Freud's theories.
B. emphasize the role of the id.
C. do not view the libido as a primary determinant of behavior.
D. recognize intrapsychic conflicts as a primary determinant of behavior.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Newer psychodynamic perspectives do not view the libido as a primary determinant of behavior. While Freud's theories focused heavily on the libido as a driving force, newer perspectives have evolved to consider a broader range of factors influencing behavior. Choice A is incorrect as newer perspectives still build upon some elements of Freud's theories. Choice B is incorrect as newer perspectives may not solely emphasize the role of the id. Choice D is incorrect as while intrapsychic conflicts are considered important, they are not always viewed as the sole primary determinant of behavior in newer psychodynamic perspectives.

4. 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.

5. Which therapy style requires the therapist to actively confront a client's irrational beliefs?

A. Person-centered therapy
B. Psychodynamic psychotherapy
C. Electroconvulsive therapy
D. REBT

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, REBT (Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy). REBT involves actively confronting and changing irrational beliefs. Choice A, Person-centered therapy, is focused on providing a supportive and empathetic environment rather than confronting irrational beliefs. Choice B, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, emphasizes exploring unconscious processes and early life experiences rather than direct confrontation of irrational beliefs. Choice C, Electroconvulsive therapy, is a biological treatment for severe depression and other mental illnesses, not a therapy style that involves confronting irrational beliefs.