understanding the causes of mental disorders is important because

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test

1. 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.

2. What is the current view of developmentalists regarding important changes throughout the entire human lifespan?

A. Multicultural perspective
B. Lifespan perspective
C. Atypical development
D. Maturation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Lifespan perspective.' This perspective highlights that significant developmental changes occur throughout a person's entire life, emphasizing continuous growth and development. Choice A, 'Multicultural perspective,' refers to the consideration of cultural influences on development rather than the timeline of changes. Choice C, 'Atypical development,' pertains to deviations from typical developmental patterns and is not directly related to the continuous changes across the lifespan. Choice D, 'Maturation,' specifically refers to the biological process of growth and development, which is different from the broader concept of developmental changes occurring across the lifespan.

3. 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.

4. Dr. Asgaard believes that in order to fully understand complex processes, such as auditory processing, it is first necessary to understand all the separate component parts. Dr. Asgaard's views are most consistent with those of?

A. William James.
B. Ivan Pavlov.
C. Carl Rogers.
D. Edward Titchener.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Edward Titchener. Dr. Asgaard's belief aligns with Titchener's approach of structuralism, which emphasizes understanding the components of consciousness. William James (choice A) was associated with functionalism, focusing on the purpose of behavior rather than its structure. Ivan Pavlov (choice B) was known for classical conditioning in behaviorism, not structuralism. Carl Rogers (choice C) was a major figure in humanistic psychology, emphasizing personal growth and self-actualization, which is not directly related to understanding component parts of processes.

5. How did philosopher John Locke characterize the mind of a child?

A. Innately good
B. Conscientiousness
C. Superego-ideal
D. A blank slate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Philosopher John Locke characterized the mind of a child as a 'blank slate,' indicating that it is devoid of innate ideas or characteristics. This concept suggests that a child's mind is shaped and developed through experiences and learning rather than having inherent qualities. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as Locke did not view the mind of a child as innately good, conscientious, or associated with the superego-ideal. Instead, he believed that individuals are born without built-in mental content, emphasizing the importance of environmental influences on cognitive development.