how does the diathesis stress model explain the onset of mental disorders

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Final Exam

1. How does the diathesis-stress model explain the onset of mental disorders?

A. Stress alone is sufficient to cause mental disorders.
B. Both genetic vulnerability and environmental stress are needed to trigger a disorder.
C. Only genetic factors cause mental disorders.
D. Environmental stressors alone can cause mental disorders.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model explains that the onset of mental disorders results from the interaction of genetic vulnerability (diathesis) and environmental stress. Choice A is incorrect because stress alone is not sufficient, according to the model. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies by attributing mental disorders solely to genetic factors. Choice D is incorrect because the model emphasizes the joint contribution of genetic predisposition and environmental stress.

2. What is extinction and how might it be used in treating a disorder?

A. Extinction strengthens the conditioned response by continuously pairing the conditioned stimulus with the unconditioned stimulus.
B. Extinction is the process of eliminating a conditioned response by repeatedly presenting the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus.
C. Extinction is ineffective and is not used in treating disorders.
D. Extinction is the process of intensifying the conditioned response by pairing the conditioned stimulus with a stronger unconditioned stimulus.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Extinction is the process of eliminating a conditioned response by repeatedly presenting the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus. This helps in reducing or eliminating undesired behaviors. Choice A is incorrect because extinction does not strengthen the conditioned response but weakens it. Choice C is also incorrect as extinction is a valid technique used in treating disorders by reducing unwanted behaviors. Choice D is incorrect as extinction does not involve intensifying the conditioned response but rather diminishing it.

3. The child might see an orange and say 'apple' because both objects are round. This is known as ____?

A. Accommodation
B. Assimilation
C. A detailed description of a single culture or context
D. A study that tests a causal hypothesis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assimilation. Assimilation occurs when a child applies an existing schema (like 'apple' for round objects) to new objects. In this scenario, the child sees the round orange and calls it an 'apple' because they are both round. Choice A, Accommodation, involves modifying an existing schema to fit a new object or situation, which is not the case in the given scenario. Choices C and D are unrelated to the concept being tested in this question.

4. What role does genetic predisposition play in the development of mental disorders?

A. Genetic predisposition guarantees the development of mental disorders.
B. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role but is not the only factor in developing mental disorders.
C. Genetic predisposition is irrelevant in mental health.
D. Genetic predisposition can be completely overridden by environmental factors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of mental disorders, interacting with environmental factors. While genetics can predispose individuals to certain mental disorders, it is not a guarantee that the disorders will develop. Environmental factors, such as lifestyle, upbringing, and traumatic experiences, also play a crucial role in the manifestation of mental health conditions. Choice C is incorrect as genetic predisposition does have relevance in mental health. Choice D is incorrect as genetic predisposition and environmental factors both contribute to the development of mental disorders, neither completely overriding the other.

5. In an experiment, the investigators manipulate variables to learn how one affects another.?

A. A data-collection method in which participants respond to questions
B. The entire group that is of interest to a researcher
C. A detailed description of a single culture or context
D. A study that tests a causal hypothesis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because in an experimental design, investigators manipulate variables to determine the effect of one on another. This process allows researchers to test causal hypotheses by manipulating one variable while keeping others constant. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not directly relate to manipulating variables in an experiment.