Nursing Elites

1. The process of ________ is used to increase the probability that a behavior will occur.

• A. operant conditioning
• B. reinforcement
• C. classical conditioning
• D. punishment

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is reinforcement. Reinforcement involves providing a consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Operant conditioning (Choice A) refers to learning through consequences for behavior, which includes reinforcement and punishment. Classical conditioning (Choice C) involves forming associations between stimuli and involuntary responses. Punishment (Choice D) involves providing a consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. In this context, the question specifically asks about a process that increases the probability of a behavior occurring, aligning with the concept of reinforcement.

2. 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.

3. Distinguish between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes of abnormal behavior.

• A. Necessary causes are required for a disorder to develop but do not guarantee it.
• B. Sufficient causes guarantee a disorder will develop, but they are not required.
• C. Contributory causes increase the likelihood of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient.
• D. Contributory causes are conditions that guarantee the occurrence of a disorder.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In understanding abnormal behavior, it is crucial to differentiate between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes. Necessary causes are those that are required for a disorder to develop, meaning that without them, the disorder would not occur. However, their presence does not guarantee the occurrence of the disorder. Sufficient causes, on the other hand, are those that alone can guarantee the development of a disorder, but they are not the only factors that can lead to it. Contributory causes are factors that increase the likelihood of a disorder but are not essential on their own nor do they guarantee the disorder. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the role of necessary causes in the development of abnormal behavior. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they misrepresent the definitions and roles of sufficient and contributory causes in causing abnormal behavior.

4. What is the branch of psychology concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders called?

• A. Industrial psychology.
• B. Social psychology.
• C. Developmental psychology.
• D. Clinical psychology.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Clinical psychology. Clinical psychology specifically deals with the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders. Industrial psychology (choice A) focuses on behavior in the workplace, social psychology (choice B) studies how people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others, and developmental psychology (choice C) is the study of how and why people change over time.

5. Which of the following explanations for the relationship between SES and abnormal behavior is not supported by the existing data?

• A. Low SES may cause abnormal behavior.
• B. Abnormal behavior is more likely to go untreated in those of low SES.
• C. Recovery from loss of a job may be more difficult for those exhibiting signs of mental illness.
• D. High SES may cause abnormal behavior.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because high SES as a cause for abnormal behavior is not supported by existing data. Abnormal behavior is often associated with factors like stress, trauma, genetics, or environmental influences. High SES is not a known cause of abnormal behavior. Choices A, B, and C are more plausible explanations: Low SES may lead to limited access to mental health care, untreated abnormal behavior due to financial constraints, and difficulties in coping with mental health issues after job loss, respectively.

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