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. Finding meaning in life and dealing with death form core values in which of the following perspectives?

A. Existential
B. Humanistic
C. Behavioral
D. Object Relations

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Existential. Existentialism is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It focuses on finding meaning in life and dealing with fundamental issues such as death. This perspective is characterized by concepts like authenticity, responsibility, and the search for purpose. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while they may address certain aspects of human behavior or relationships, they do not specifically emphasize the search for meaning and the confrontation with death as core values.

3. What is extinction, and how might it be used in treating a disorder?

A. Extinction strengthens the conditioned response by continuously pairing the conditioned stimulus with the unconditioned stimulus.
B. Extinction is the process of eliminating a conditioned response by repeatedly presenting the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus.
C. Extinction is ineffective and is not used in treating disorders.
D. Extinction is the process of intensifying the conditioned response by pairing the conditioned stimulus with a stronger unconditioned stimulus.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Extinction is the process of eliminating a conditioned response by repeatedly presenting the conditioned stimulus without the unconditioned stimulus. This process helps in reducing or eliminating undesired behaviors or responses. Choice A is incorrect because extinction weakens the conditioned response by breaking the association between the conditioned stimulus and the unconditioned stimulus. Choice C is incorrect as extinction is a widely used technique in behavioral therapies for treating disorders. Choice D is incorrect as extinction aims to reduce the conditioned response, not intensify it.

4. How does abuse and maltreatment tend to affect a child's ability to relate to others?

A. It leads to the development of strong, healthy relationships.
B. It results in difficulty forming healthy relationships later in life.
C. It has little to no impact on a child's social development.
D. It promotes independence in forming new relationships.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Abuse and maltreatment tend to result in difficulties in forming healthy relationships and may lead to a disorganized and disoriented attachment style. Choice A is incorrect because abuse and maltreatment usually hinder the development of strong and healthy relationships. Choice C is incorrect as abuse and maltreatment significantly impact a child's social development. Choice D is incorrect because abuse and maltreatment do not promote independence in forming new relationships but rather create barriers to forming healthy connections.

5. Why is it discouraged to use terms such as 'schizophrenic', 'autistic', and 'retarded' when referring to people with mental illness?

A. These terms are no longer in the DSM
B. There are only a small number of people diagnosed with these terms
C. There is nothing wrong in using these terms
D. Because people with mental illness are not defined by their condition

Correct answer: D

Rationale: It is discouraged to use terms like 'schizophrenic', 'autistic', and 'retarded' when referring to people with mental illness because people with mental illness should not be defined solely by their condition. Using such labels can reduce individuals to just their diagnosis, overlooking their individuality and other aspects of their identity. It is essential to treat individuals with mental illness with respect and dignity, focusing on their humanity rather than reducing them to a label. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the main reason for discouraging these terms lies in not defining individuals by their conditions, rather than the terms being in or out of the DSM, the number of diagnosed individuals, or the perception of whether there is anything wrong with using such terms.