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. With which of the following statements would a behaviorist agree?

A. Conscious experiences can be studied in an objective, precise way.
B. In order to understand behavior, one must understand the motives behind the behavior.
C. Behavior can only be explained in terms of phenomenology, that is, an individual's interpretation of experience.
D. Psychology should be the science of behavior that can be observed by others.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Behaviorists argue that psychology should focus on observable behavior that can be studied objectively. Choice A is incorrect because behaviorists do not typically focus on conscious experiences, as they are not directly observable. Choice B is incorrect because behaviorists emphasize that behavior can be understood without delving into internal motives. Choice C is incorrect as behaviorists do not exclusively explain behavior through an individual's interpretation of experience; they focus on observable actions and reactions.

3. When the parent returned in the strange situation experiment, babies with ____ attachment tend to remain upset for long periods of time, kicking, screaming, refusing to be distracted with toys, and sometimes arching back and away from contact?

A. Secure
B. Avoidant
C. Ambivalent
D. Disorganized

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the strange situation experiment, babies with ambivalent attachment display distress and have difficulty calming down when a parent returns. They may kick, scream, refuse toys, and show signs of physical discomfort or resistance. This behavior is characteristic of ambivalent attachment, where the infant shows mixed emotions and finds it hard to be soothed by the returning parent. Secure attachment (Choice A) refers to babies who seek comfort from the parent but can be soothed upon return. Avoidant attachment (Choice B) involves babies showing little emotion upon reunion with the parent. Disorganized attachment (Choice D) displays inconsistent or confused behaviors in the strange situation experiment.

4. Michael, age 16, has recently gained a considerable amount of weight but has not grown any taller. His father experienced a similar pattern of growth when he was a teenager. Theorists who suggest that Michael’s growth pattern was inherited from his father emphasize the ________ side of the nature-nurture debate?

A. Nature
B. Nurture
C. Environmental
D. Experiential

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A: Nature.' In this scenario, the emphasis is on the genetic inheritance of the growth pattern from father to son, highlighting the role of nature in determining physical characteristics. Choice B, 'Nurture,' focuses on environmental influences, which are not the primary factor in this case. Choice C, 'Environmental,' is similar to 'Nurture' and does not address the genetic aspect mentioned. Choice D, 'Experiential,' pertains more to the learning and experiential aspects rather than genetic inheritance, making it an incorrect choice.

5. Which school of psychology takes the most positive view of human nature?

A. Behaviorism.
B. Functionalism.
C. Humanism.
D. Psychoanalysis.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Humanism. Humanism is a school of psychology that focuses on the positive aspects of human nature, emphasizing personal growth, self-actualization, and the inherent goodness in individuals. Behaviorism (choice A) primarily focuses on observable behaviors and conditioning, functionalism (choice B) emphasizes the functions of consciousness and behavior adaptation, and psychoanalysis (choice D) delves into unconscious thoughts and childhood experiences, rather than having a fundamentally positive view of human nature.