what is the significance of the diathesis stress model in understanding mental disorders
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Psychology 101 Final Exam

1. What is the significance of the diathesis-stress model in understanding mental disorders?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental stress are necessary for the development of mental disorders, highlighting the interaction between nature and nurture. Choice A is incorrect because the model emphasizes the combined influence of genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors. Choice C is incorrect as the diathesis-stress model remains a valuable framework in understanding mental health. Choice D is incorrect because the model considers both genetic and environmental factors, not solely environmental factors.

2. Elliot became widowed after nearly 40 years of marriage. He has convinced himself that no one will ever love him again. His irrational thinking has caused him to suffer from depression, and he rarely leaves his house. What perspective might best explain his behavior?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The cognitive perspective might best explain Elliot's irrational thinking and resulting depression. In this case, Elliot's belief that he will never be loved again is a cognitive distortion, leading to depressive symptoms and social withdrawal. The psychodynamic perspective primarily focuses on unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts from the past, which do not directly address Elliot's current cognitive distortions. The behavioral perspective would focus on observable behaviors and how they are reinforced, which is not the central issue in this scenario. The biological perspective would examine the role of genetics, brain chemistry, and other physiological factors, which are not the primary cause of Elliot's behavior in this context.

3. In psychoanalytic theory, which psychosexual stage centers on castration anxiety?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Castration anxiety is a concept specific to the Phallic stage in psychoanalytic theory, according to Sigmund Freud. During the Phallic stage, children experience the Oedipus complex (boys) and Electra complex (girls), where they develop unconscious desires for the opposite-sex parent and fear castration by the same-sex parent. This anxiety is a crucial aspect of the Phallic stage, making it the correct answer. The other stages (Genital, Oral, and Anal) do not directly involve castration anxiety and focus on different aspects of psychosexual development.

4. A baby throws its arms out and then inward (as if embracing) in response to loud noise or when its head falls. Which reflex is this?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Moro. The Moro reflex is an instinctual response seen in infants when they experience a sudden loss of support or loud noise. The baby will throw their arms out and then bring them back in, resembling an embrace. This reflex is important for survival as it helps the infant react to potential dangers. Choice A, Babinski, refers to the reflex where a baby's toes spread apart when the sole of the foot is stimulated. Choice B, Palmar, is related to the reflex where a baby's fingers close tightly around an object placed in their palm. Choice C, Darwinian, is not a recognized reflex in this context.

5. What does incidence refer to?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'How many new cases of a disorder occur during a given period of time.' Incidence specifically measures the rate of occurrence of new cases of a particular condition within a defined population and time frame. This distinguishes it from prevalence, which includes both new and existing cases. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately define the term 'incidence.' Choice B refers to recovery, choice C mentions gender distribution, and choice D relates to the total population affected by a disorder, which are not reflective of the concept of incidence.

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