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. How does psychoanalytic theory attempt to explain personality, motivation, and mental disorders?

A. Studying observable behavior.
B. Analyzing conscious experience into its basic elements.
C. Focusing on unconscious determinants of behavior.
D. Studying the function or purpose of consciousness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Psychoanalytic theory focuses on the unconscious determinants of behavior to explain personality, motivation, and mental disorders. This approach suggests that hidden forces in the unconscious mind influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, shaping our overall psychological makeup. Choice A is incorrect because psychoanalytic theory delves beyond observable behavior. Choice B is incorrect as psychoanalytic theory goes deeper than analyzing conscious experience alone. Choice D is incorrect as psychoanalytic theory is more concerned with unconscious processes rather than the function or purpose of consciousness.

3. Which of the following statements is true?

A. Most behavioral disorders are determined exclusively by genes.
B. Genes play a role in most mental disorders.
C. Genes do not affect biochemical processes.
D. The genes that will be expressed in an individual are not affected by experience.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Genes play a role in most mental disorders.' This statement is true as genes do play a significant role in the development of various mental disorders. Choice A is incorrect because most behavioral disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and other factors, not exclusively genes. Choice C is incorrect as genes do affect biochemical processes. Choice D is incorrect because the expression of genes in an individual can be influenced by experiences and environmental factors, a concept known as gene-environment interaction.

4. How do socioeconomic factors influence mental health?

A. Socioeconomic factors have no impact on mental health.
B. Socioeconomic factors are the primary determinants of mental health.
C. Socioeconomic factors are irrelevant to mental health.
D. Socioeconomic factors can exacerbate but not cause mental health issues.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Socioeconomic factors are indeed primary determinants of mental health. These factors influence mental health by impacting access to resources, stress levels, and overall well-being. Choice A is incorrect as socioeconomic factors do have a significant impact on mental health. Choice C is incorrect as socioeconomic factors play a crucial role in mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect as socioeconomic factors can both exacerbate and cause mental health issues.

5. What are psychology's intellectual parents?

A. Physics and physiology.
B. Philosophy and physiology.
C. Chemistry and physics.
D. Philosophy and chemistry.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Psychology's intellectual parents are philosophy and physiology. Philosophy contributed to the early development of psychology by exploring questions about the mind and behavior, while physiology provided a scientific foundation for understanding the biological aspects of human psychology. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately represent the disciplines that significantly influenced the emergence of psychology as a distinct field of study.