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. Colleen found herself attracted to her psychology instructor. She would frequently go by his office just to be near him. When he didn't respond to her advances, Colleen eventually told him that she had thoughts of killing herself so that he would spend time trying to counsel her. What personality disorder best describes Colleen's thinking and behavior?

A. Borderline personality disorder
B. Schizoid personality disorder
C. Schizotypal personality disorder
D. Antisocial personality disorder

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Colleen's behavior of seeking attention and manipulating others by threatening self-harm to elicit a response from her psychology instructor aligns with the characteristics of borderline personality disorder. This disorder is characterized by unstable relationships, impulsive actions, and efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not match Colleen's behavior as described in the scenario. Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by a lack of interest in social relationships, Schizotypal personality disorder involves social anxiety and odd behavior, and Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a disregard for others' feelings and violating their rights.

3. How does the concept of neural plasticity relate to recovery from brain injuries?

A. Neural plasticity means the brain cannot recover from injuries.
B. Neural plasticity allows the brain to recover and reorganize after injuries.
C. Neural plasticity refers to the brain's inability to change after injury.
D. Neural plasticity is a myth.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Neural plasticity allows the brain to recover and reorganize after injuries. It is the brain's ability to adapt and change, forming new connections or reorganizing existing ones to compensate for damage. Choice A is incorrect as neural plasticity enables recovery. Choice C is incorrect as neural plasticity involves the brain's capacity to change. Choice D is incorrect as neural plasticity is a well-established phenomenon in neuroscience.

4. How is binge-eating disorder different from bulimia?

A. Typically eat much smaller portions before purging the food.
B. Do not typically purge the food they eat.
C. Only purge their food after several binge sessions.
D. Often resort to anorexic methods to rid themselves of the food they have eaten.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because individuals with binge-eating disorder do not typically engage in purging behavior, unlike those with bulimia. Choice A is incorrect as individuals with binge-eating disorder do not purge the food they eat, so they do not eat smaller portions before doing so. Choice C is incorrect as they do not purge their food after several binge sessions. Choice D is incorrect as individuals with binge-eating disorder do not resort to anorexic methods to rid themselves of the food they have eaten.

5. Undercontrolled behavior tends to be seen in American children, whereas overcontrolled behavior is seen in Thai children.

A. Aggressive behavior; calm behavior
B. Overcontrolled behavior; undercontrolled behavior
C. Undercontrolled behavior; overcontrolled behavior
D. Equal behavioral traits in both cultures.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Undercontrolled behavior; overcontrolled behavior.' The question highlights a cultural difference in behavior tendencies between American and Thai children. American children are usually characterized by undercontrolled behavior, while Thai children tend to exhibit overcontrolled behavior. Choice A (Aggressive behavior; calm behavior) is incorrect as the question does not mention aggressive or calm behavior as the contrasting traits between the two groups. Choice B (Overcontrolled behavior; undercontrolled behavior) is incorrect because the described behavior patterns are reversed based on the question's context. Choice D (Equal behavioral traits in both cultures) is incorrect as the question explicitly states differing behavior patterns in American and Thai children.