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. William James, who was a pioneer in the development of functionalism, was most heavily influenced by?

A. Charles Darwin.
B. Sigmund Freud.
C. John Watson.
D. B.F. Skinner.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: William James was heavily influenced by Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, which shaped his functionalist views on psychology. This influence is evident in James's emphasis on adaptation, survival, and the functional purposes of behavior. Choice B, Sigmund Freud, is incorrect because Freud's psychoanalytic theory focused on unconscious processes and childhood experiences, which differ significantly from James's functionalism. Choice C, John Watson, is incorrect as Watson was a behaviorist who emphasized observable behavior and rejected mental processes, which contrasts with James's focus on mental processes. Choice D, B.F. Skinner, is also incorrect as Skinner was a behaviorist known for his work on operant conditioning, which is not directly aligned with James's functionalist perspective.

3. What term refers to the mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge?

A. Cognition.
B. Pedagogy.
C. Empiricism.
D. Introspection.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, cognition. Cognition encompasses mental processes like thinking, remembering, and problem-solving, all crucial in acquiring knowledge. Pedagogy (choice B) refers to the method and practice of teaching. Empiricism (choice C) is a theory that states knowledge comes from sensory experience. Introspection (choice D) involves examining one's own conscious thoughts and feelings, not specifically focused on acquiring knowledge.

4. Define resilience and explain its significance in mental health.

A. Resilience refers to the ability to avoid all mental health issues despite severe stress.
B. Resilience is the ability to adapt successfully to even very difficult circumstances.
C. Resilience is the tendency to be unaffected by any form of stress or adversity.
D. Resilience is the ability to avoid stress by avoiding challenges.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct definition of resilience is the ability to adapt successfully to difficult circumstances, not avoiding stress entirely. Resilience is significant in mental health as it helps individuals overcome adversity rather than avoiding it. Choice A is incorrect as resilience doesn't mean avoiding all mental health issues but rather dealing with stress effectively. Choice C is incorrect as resilience involves facing and overcoming stress, not being unaffected by it. Choice D is incorrect as resilience involves facing challenges and stress, not avoiding them altogether.

5. One key issue in the study of human development is the continuity-discontinuity issue. The discontinuity side posits that development is characterized by change in type or kind. These are known as ____.

A. Qualitative change
B. Quantitative change
C. Maturation
D. Multidirectional development

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Qualitative change. Qualitative change aligns with the discontinuity view by involving changes in type or kind. This contrasts with quantitative change (B), which is about changes in amount or quantity. Maturation (C) refers to the process of becoming fully developed in a particular way, and multidirectional development (D) emphasizes that development involves both gains and losses, not specifically focusing on changes in type or kind.