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. Which of the following is a common criticism against Piaget's theory of cognitive development?

A. The sequence of stages is not fixed.
B. Research has not supported the existence of the preoperational stage.
C. Piaget put a heavy emphasis on the environment, ignoring the importance of mental processes.
D. Children develop abilities earlier than Piaget theorized.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because one common criticism of Piaget's theory is that children often acquire cognitive abilities earlier than Piaget proposed. This criticism suggests that Piaget's stages might not be as fixed or rigid as he believed. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect: A is a characteristic of Piaget's theory; B is not a common criticism, as research generally supports the existence of Piaget's stages; and C is inaccurate, as Piaget actually emphasized the importance of mental processes in cognitive development.

3. What are protective factors? Give an example of one and explain how it can impact a person's later functioning.

A. Protective factors are influences that modify a person's response to environmental stressors, making adverse consequences less likely.
B. An example of a protective factor is having a warm and caring parent, which may lead to resilience.
C. Protective factors usually lead to resilience, the ability to adapt successfully to stressful circumstances.
D. Protective factors always prevent the development of psychopathology.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Protective factors are influences that modify a person's response to environmental stressors, reducing the likelihood of adverse outcomes. An example of a protective factor is having a warm and caring parent, which can foster resilience in individuals. Resilience allows individuals to adapt successfully to stressful situations. Choice A is incorrect as protective factors do not always prevent adverse consequences but reduce their likelihood. Choice C is incorrect as resilience is the outcome of protective factors, not the other way around. Choice D is incorrect as while protective factors can reduce the risk of psychopathology, they do not always prevent its development.

4. What is the significance of early intervention in preventing mental disorders?

A. Early intervention has no significant impact on preventing mental disorders.
B. Early intervention is critical in reducing the risk of developing mental disorders.
C. Early intervention can sometimes exacerbate mental disorders.
D. Early intervention is only effective in severe cases.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Early intervention is crucial in preventing or mitigating the development of mental disorders by addressing issues before they fully develop. Choice A is incorrect because early intervention plays a significant role in preventing mental disorders. Choice C is incorrect as early intervention aims to improve mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect as early intervention is effective across various stages of mental health conditions, not just in severe cases.

5. How does the biopsychosocial model differ from the biomedical model?

A. The biopsychosocial model focuses solely on the biological aspects of disease.
B. The biopsychosocial model includes biological, psychological, and social factors, whereas the biomedical model focuses on only biological factors.
C. The biopsychosocial model is outdated and has been replaced by the biomedical model.
D. The biopsychosocial model is identical to the biomedical model.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The biopsychosocial model differs from the biomedical model by considering biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding health and illness. Choice A is incorrect because the biopsychosocial model does not solely focus on biological aspects. Choice C is incorrect as the biopsychosocial model is not outdated but rather offers a more comprehensive approach. Choice D is incorrect as the two models are distinct in their considerations of factors beyond biology.