how does the environment interact with genetic predispositions to influence mental health

ATI RN

Psychology 2301 Exam 1

1. How does the environment interact with genetic predispositions to influence mental health?

A. The environment has no influence on mental health.
B. The environment interacts with genetic predispositions to either enhance or mitigate mental health risks.
C. The environment can only influence physical health, not mental health.
D. The environment has a minimal effect on mental health outcomes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The environment interacts with genetic predispositions to either enhance or mitigate mental health risks. This highlights the intricate relationship between one's genetic makeup and the environmental factors they are exposed to, both contributing significantly to mental health outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as numerous studies show that the environment plays a crucial role in mental health. Choice C is incorrect as the environment can influence both physical and mental health. Choice D is incorrect as research indicates that the environment can have a substantial impact on mental health outcomes.

2. Which characteristics are associated with adults fixated in the anal stage?

A. Orderliness, obstinacy, or messiness
B. Fixated in the oral stage
C. Dissolves the electra complex
D. Triggers penis envy, which then dissolves the female oedipus complex

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Orderliness, obstinacy, or messiness.' According to Freud's psychosexual theory, fixation in the anal stage can lead to these characteristics in adulthood. Choice B is incorrect as fixation in the oral stage is associated with issues related to dependency and aggression. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the Electra complex, which is not related to the anal stage fixation. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to penis envy and the female Oedipus complex, which are not directly related to characteristics of adults fixated in the anal stage.

3. A male college student begins feeling sad and lonely. Although still able to go to classes and work at his job, he finds himself feeling down much of the time and worrying about what is happening to him. Which part of the definition of abnormality applies to his situation?

A. Personal distress
B. Cultural factors
C. Impaired functioning
D. Violation of societal norms

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Personal distress. In this scenario, the student is experiencing personal distress as he feels sad and lonely, despite being able to function in his daily life. Personal distress is a key criterion for determining abnormality as it signifies significant emotional discomfort. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as cultural factors, impaired functioning, and violation of societal norms are not the primary factors highlighted in the student's situation.

4. Understanding the causes of mental disorders is important because ________

A. effective treatment is not possible without such an understanding.
B. classification of disorders cannot be done without such information.
C. such knowledge might make both the prevention and cure of mental disorders possible.
D. disagreements about the causes of psychopathology have long limited the advancements made in the study of abnormal psychology.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Understanding the causes of mental disorders is crucial because it can potentially lead to both prevention and cure. By identifying the root causes, strategies can be developed to prevent the onset of disorders, and effective treatments can be tailored to address these causes directly. This approach can make treatments more efficient, as addressing the underlying factors contributing to the disorder can result in better outcomes for individuals. Choices A and B are incorrect because while understanding causes is important for effective treatment and classification, the primary focus is on prevention and cure. Choice D, while highlighting the impact of disagreements on advancements in abnormal psychology, does not directly address the importance of understanding causes for prevention and cure.

5. Which perspective or viewpoint focuses on intrapsychic conflicts as the cause of psychopathology?

A. Biological
B. Behavioral
C. Psychodynamic
D. Sociocultural

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Psychodynamic. The psychodynamic perspective emphasizes the role of intrapsychic conflicts, often related to unconscious processes, in the development of psychopathology. This perspective, founded by Sigmund Freud, suggests that unresolved conflicts from early childhood experiences can manifest as mental health issues. Choice A, Biological, focuses on the physiological aspects of psychopathology, such as genetics and neurobiology. Choice B, Behavioral, looks at how behavior is learned and reinforced. Choice D, Sociocultural, considers the influence of social and cultural factors on mental health.