Nursing Elites

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. Behaviors that deviate from the norm are?

• A. Always seen as a disorder if they violate social norms
• B. Considered a disorder regardless of culture
• C. Typically seen as a disorder when they impair functioning
• D. Never considered as a sign of abnormality

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Behaviors that deviate from the norm are typically considered disorders when they impair functioning. Choice A is incorrect because not all behaviors that deviate from the norm are considered disorders; they need to impair functioning. Choice B is incorrect because the cultural context plays a significant role in determining what is considered abnormal. Choice D is incorrect because behaviors that deviate from the norm can indeed be considered signs of abnormality, especially if they impair functioning.

3. What role does genetic predisposition play in the development of mental disorders?

• A. Genetic predisposition guarantees the development of mental disorders.
• B. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role but is not the only factor in developing mental disorders.
• C. Genetic predisposition is irrelevant in mental health.
• D. Genetic predisposition can be completely overridden by environmental factors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of mental disorders, interacting with environmental factors. While genetics can predispose individuals to certain mental disorders, it is not a guarantee that the disorders will develop. Environmental factors, such as lifestyle, upbringing, and traumatic experiences, also play a crucial role in the manifestation of mental health conditions. Choice C is incorrect as genetic predisposition does have relevance in mental health. Choice D is incorrect as genetic predisposition and environmental factors both contribute to the development of mental disorders, neither completely overriding the other.

4. An elementary school principal wants to know the best predictors of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school in high school so she can provide preventive interventions. Your best advice is ________.

• A. Look for kids who are very popular because they are class clowns.
• B. Silent, depressed, loners tend to be dropouts because they are often depressed.
• C. There is no way to predict juvenile delinquency as early as elementary school.
• D. The best predictor is aggression toward peers, which leads to peer rejection.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best advice is to look for aggression toward peers as the best predictor of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school. Option A is incorrect because being popular or a class clown doesn't necessarily indicate delinquency. Option B is incorrect as not all silent, depressed loners end up as dropouts. Option C is incorrect as research shows that early signs of aggression can predict future delinquent behavior and school dropout rates, making it feasible to intervene early.

5. How do defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology?

• A. They do not contribute to psychopathology as they are healthy coping mechanisms.
• B. They contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities.
• C. Defense mechanisms have no connection to psychopathology.
• D. Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies that can lead to the development of psychopathology.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Defense mechanisms contribute to psychopathology by allowing individuals to avoid confronting painful realities. This avoidance can prevent individuals from dealing with underlying issues, leading to the development or exacerbation of psychopathological conditions. Choice A is incorrect because while defense mechanisms may serve as coping mechanisms, they can also contribute to psychopathology when used excessively or inappropriately. Choice C is incorrect as defense mechanisms are indeed connected to psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because defense mechanisms, when maladaptive, can contribute to psychopathology rather than being considered healthy coping strategies.

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