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. Neural plasticity is ________.

A. the process by which neurotransmitters are broken down in the brain.
B. the flexibility of the brain—existing neural circuits can change or new ones can be made.
C. strong evidence of brain damage, leading to the development of a mental disorder.
D. the best indicator of temperament and its effect on the personality development of a child.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Neural plasticity refers to the brain's flexibility to change existing neural circuits or create new ones. Choice A is incorrect as it describes neurotransmitter breakdown, not neural plasticity. Choice C is incorrect because neural plasticity does not necessarily indicate brain damage leading to mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect because neural plasticity is not specifically related to temperament or personality development in children.

3. Children whose temperament is generally mild but who are hesitant about accepting new experiences are described as?

A. Secure
B. Avoidant
C. Ambivalent
D. Disorganized

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Ambivalent.' Children with an ambivalent temperament are indeed generally mild but hesitant about accepting new experiences. This temperament is characterized by a combination of mildness and hesitance. Choice A, 'Secure,' refers to children who are comfortable with both their caregiver's presence and absence, showing a secure attachment style. Choice B, 'Avoidant,' describes children who tend to avoid or ignore their caregiver, displaying an insecure attachment style. Choice D, 'Disorganized,' represents children with inconsistent or confused behaviors towards their caregiver, exhibiting an insecure and disoriented attachment style.

4. Newer psychodynamic perspectives ________.

A. disregard most elements of Freud's theories.
B. emphasize the role of the id.
C. do not view the libido as a primary determinant of behavior.
D. recognize intrapsychic conflicts as a primary determinant of behavior.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Newer psychodynamic perspectives do not view the libido as a primary determinant of behavior. While Freud's theories focused heavily on the libido as a driving force, newer perspectives have evolved to consider a broader range of factors influencing behavior. Choice A is incorrect as newer perspectives still build upon some elements of Freud's theories. Choice B is incorrect as newer perspectives may not solely emphasize the role of the id. Choice D is incorrect as while intrapsychic conflicts are considered important, they are not always viewed as the sole primary determinant of behavior in newer psychodynamic perspectives.

5. _ 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.