what is the diathesis stress model of psychopathology

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Final Exam

1. 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.

2. _ tends to be seen in American children, whereas _ tends to be seen in Thai children.

A. Aggressive behavior; calm behavior
B. Overcontrolled behavior; undercontrolled behavior
C. Undercontrolled behavior; overcontrolled behavior
D. Equal behavioral traits in both cultures.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Undercontrolled behavior tends to be seen in American children, whereas overcontrolled behavior is seen in Thai children.' This statement is supported by cultural studies and observations. American children are often described as exhibiting undercontrolled behavior, which includes impulsivity and lack of inhibition. On the other hand, Thai children are often described as showing overcontrolled behavior, characterized by restraint and adherence to social norms. Choice A is incorrect because calm behavior is not typically associated with American children. Choice B is incorrect as overcontrolled behavior is not commonly associated with American children. Choice D is incorrect as there are observed differences in behavioral traits between American and Thai children.

3. The interpersonal perspective ________.

A. arose as a reaction against the unscientific methods of psychoanalysis.
B. was introduced by Erik Erikson.
C. emphasizes social rather than inner determinants of behavior.
D. is the most influential humanistic perspective today.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The interpersonal perspective emphasizes social rather than inner determinants of behavior. Choice A is incorrect as the interpersonal perspective focuses on social interactions rather than being a reaction against psychoanalysis. Choice B is incorrect as the interpersonal perspective is not specifically attributed to Erik Erikson. Choice D is incorrect as the most influential humanistic perspective today would be humanistic psychology, not the interpersonal perspective.

4. After cheating on her husband and feeling ashamed, Julia accused her husband of cheating. Such behavior is explained by which of the following defense mechanisms?

A. Sublimation
B. Displacement
C. Projection
D. Rationalization

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Projection. Projection is the defense mechanism where one attributes their own unacceptable feelings to others. In this scenario, Julia is projecting her feelings of guilt and shame onto her husband by accusing him of cheating. Sublimation (choice A) involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities. Displacement (choice B) is redirecting emotions from the original source to a substitute target. Rationalization (choice D) is providing logical explanations to justify unacceptable behavior, which is not applicable in this context.

5. The site of chemical communication in the brain is the ________.

A. neuron
B. synapse
C. axon
D. dendrite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The synapse is the correct answer. It is the site where communication between neurons occurs through the release and reception of neurotransmitters. Choice A, neuron, is incorrect as it is the cell itself rather than a specific site of communication. Choice C, axon, is also incorrect as it is a part of the neuron that transmits signals away from the cell body. Choice D, dendrite, is not the correct answer either, as dendrites receive signals from other neurons but do not release neurotransmitters for communication.