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. Why is it difficult to determine the nature of the relationship between divorce and the psychological functioning of family members?

A. Cause and effect cannot be determined as preexisting behavioral abnormalities in either the parents or the children may make divorce more likely.
B. The findings have been too inconsistent to draw any conclusions.
C. While the effects of divorce are negative on children, the effects on the spouses are generally positive.
D. Due to modern acceptance of divorce, there has been an ongoing decrease in the negative effects of divorce.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it highlights a crucial factor that makes it challenging to establish a clear cause and effect relationship between divorce and the psychological functioning of family members. Preexisting behavioral abnormalities in either the parents or the children may influence both the likelihood of divorce and the psychological functioning of family members. Choice B is incorrect as it generalizes the findings without specifying the key issue of preexisting conditions. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the effects of divorce on family members. Choice D is incorrect as it presents a broad statement without addressing the complexities involved in determining the effects of divorce.

3. Which of the following best describes a securely attached child in Japanese culture?

A. A child who is dependent, emotionally restrained, and can express his feelings only in an indirect manner.
B. A child who is independent, emotionally expressive, and can communicate well.
C. A child who is dependent, emotionally labile, and can express his feelings only in an aggressive manner.
D. A child who is independent, emotionally restrained, and can communicate well.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In Japanese culture, a securely attached child is described as dependent and emotionally restrained. This means that the child relies on their caregiver for support and is able to control their emotions, expressing their feelings in a more subtle and indirect manner. Choice B is incorrect as it describes independence, which is not characteristic of a securely attached child in Japanese culture. Choice C is also incorrect as it describes emotional lability and expressing feelings aggressively, which are not typical of securely attached children. Choice D is incorrect as it combines independence with emotional restraint, which does not align with the characteristics of a securely attached child in Japanese culture.

4. In order for one to be diagnosed with panic disorder, the panic attacks must?

A. Suddenly; unexpectedly
B. Suddenly; gradually
C. Gradually; unexpectedly
D. Unexpectedly; suddenly

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Suddenly; unexpectedly.' Panic disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks occur unexpectedly, not gradually. Panic attacks are characterized by their sudden onset and are unpredictable. Choice B is incorrect because panic attacks do not manifest gradually. Choice C is incorrect because panic attacks are not expected or predicted. Choice D is incorrect as well because the unexpected nature of panic attacks is a key criterion for diagnosing panic disorder.

5. According to John Watson, behavior is governed primarily by?

A. Heredity.
B. Personal motives.
C. The environment.
D. Unconscious desires.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: According to John Watson, behavior is primarily governed by environmental factors. Watson was a behaviorist who emphasized the influence of the environment on behavior. He believed that behavior is shaped by external stimuli and experiences, rather than internal factors like heredity or unconscious desires. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with Watson's perspective on behaviorism.