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 statements is not true about selective mutism?

A. The disturbance is often marked by high social anxiety
B. It can be diagnosed alongside social anxiety disorder
C. The person is capable of speaking in some situations
D. It may lead to academic impairment

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Selective mutism can coexist with social anxiety disorder. The correct answer is B because it is incorrect to say that selective mutism cannot be diagnosed alongside social anxiety disorder. Statement A is true as selective mutism is often associated with high social anxiety. Statement C is true as individuals with selective mutism can speak in some situations. Statement D is true as selective mutism may lead to academic impairment due to difficulties in communication.

3. Distinguish between authoritative and authoritarian parenting.

A. Authoritative parents are controlling and less communicative.
B. Authoritarian parents are warm and communicative but set firm limits.
C. Authoritative parents are less controlling and more communicative.
D. Authoritarian parents are neither warm nor communicative, often leading to moody, irritable children.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Authoritative parents are warm and communicative while also setting firm limits, creating a balanced and nurturing environment. Authoritarian parents, on the other hand, are controlling, less communicative, and tend to set strict rules without much room for discussion. This approach may lead to children becoming irritable and moody due to the lack of warmth and excessive control. Choices A and C incorrectly mix up the characteristics of authoritative and authoritarian parenting. Choice D, although mentioning irritable children, does not accurately capture the key differences between authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles.

4. What is the significance of the diathesis-stress model in understanding mental disorders?

A. The diathesis-stress model suggests that stress alone causes mental disorders.
B. The diathesis-stress model suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental stress are necessary for the development of mental disorders.
C. The diathesis-stress model is outdated and irrelevant.
D. The diathesis-stress model focuses only on environmental factors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental stress are necessary for the development of mental disorders, highlighting the interaction between nature and nurture. Choice A is incorrect because the model emphasizes the combined influence of genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors. Choice C is incorrect as the diathesis-stress model remains a valuable framework in understanding mental health. Choice D is incorrect because the model considers both genetic and environmental factors, not solely environmental factors.

5. Professor Immel believes that behaviors that are predominant in certain species probably serve some adaptive function. Professor Immel's beliefs are most consistent with which perspective?

A. Behavioral perspective.
B. Cognitive perspective.
C. Humanistic perspective.
D. Evolutionary perspective.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Professor Immel's belief that behaviors in certain species serve an adaptive function aligns with the evolutionary perspective. The evolutionary perspective posits that behaviors have developed over time because they provide an advantage for survival and reproduction. This perspective emphasizes the role of natural selection in shaping behaviors based on their adaptive value. Choices A, B, and C do not specifically address the idea that behaviors have evolved to serve specific functions for survival, making them inconsistent with Professor Immel's beliefs.