ATI RN
Psychological Exam
1. Sandy took part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, where two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three spectators. For approximately 2 weeks after the marathon, Sandy was unable to sleep or concentrate and often found herself reliving the moment she heard the bombs explode. What disorder might Sandy be diagnosed with?
- A. Posttraumatic stress disorder
- B. Phobic disorder
- C. Panic disorder
- D. Acute stress disorder
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Sandy might be diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD typically develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing the event, avoidance of reminders of the event, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened reactivity. While acute stress disorder can occur shortly after a traumatic event, the duration of symptoms in the scenario suggests a more prolonged impact, aligning with PTSD. Phobic disorder and panic disorder are not as closely related to the described symptoms as PTSD.
2. What is the diathesis-stress model of psychopathology?
- A. The idea that stress is the primary cause of psychopathology.
- B. A model that focuses solely on genetic predispositions.
- C. A theory that involves only environmental factors in the development of disorders.
- D. A person must have both a vulnerability for a disorder and exposure to stressors to develop the disorder.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The diathesis-stress model of psychopathology posits that individuals must have a vulnerability or predisposition to a disorder (diathesis) and be exposed to stressful environmental factors for the disorder to manifest. This model emphasizes the interaction between genetic or biological vulnerabilities (diathesis) and environmental stressors. Choice A is incorrect because the model does not suggest that stress is the sole cause of psychopathology. Choice B is incorrect as the model considers both genetic predispositions and environmental stressors. Choice C is incorrect because the diathesis-stress model acknowledges the role of both genetic and environmental factors in the development of disorders.
3. In an experiment, the investigators manipulate variables to learn how one affects another.?
- A. A data-collection method in which participants respond to questions
- B. The entire group that is of interest to a researcher
- C. A detailed description of a single culture or context
- D. A study that tests a causal hypothesis
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because in an experimental design, investigators manipulate variables to determine the effect of one on another. This process allows researchers to test causal hypotheses by manipulating one variable while keeping others constant. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not directly relate to manipulating variables in an experiment.
4. Why is it difficult to determine the nature of the relationship between divorce and the psychological functioning of family members?
- A. Cause and effect cannot be determined as preexisting behavioral abnormalities in either the parents or the children may make divorce more likely.
- B. The findings have been too inconsistent to draw any conclusions.
- C. While the effects of divorce are negative on children, the effects on the spouses are generally positive.
- D. Due to modern acceptance of divorce, there has been an ongoing decrease in the negative effects of divorce.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it highlights a crucial factor that makes it challenging to establish a clear cause and effect relationship between divorce and the psychological functioning of family members. Preexisting behavioral abnormalities in either the parents or the children may influence both the likelihood of divorce and the psychological functioning of family members. Choice B is incorrect as it generalizes the findings without specifying the key issue of preexisting conditions. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the effects of divorce on family members. Choice D is incorrect as it presents a broad statement without addressing the complexities involved in determining the effects of divorce.
5. How can resilience impact the likelihood of developing a mental disorder?
- A. Resilience has no impact on mental health outcomes.
- B. Resilience can help individuals overcome significant stressors.
- C. Resilience is irrelevant to mental health.
- D. Resilience is the sole factor that determines mental health outcomes.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Resilience plays a crucial role in mental health outcomes by enabling individuals to navigate and overcome stressors effectively, thus reducing the probability of developing mental disorders. Choice A is incorrect as resilience does have a positive impact on mental health. Choice C is incorrect as resilience is highly relevant to mental health outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because while resilience is important, it is not the only factor influencing mental health.
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