why does the selection of a theoretical perspective of mental disorders matter

ATI RN

Psychology 101 Final Exam

1. Why does the selection of a theoretical perspective of mental disorders matter?

A. Because it determines how data is interpreted, and influences treatment approaches.
B. It matters because different perspectives offer different insights into the causes and treatments of mental disorders.
C. The selection of a theoretical perspective is not important as all perspectives lead to the same treatment outcomes.
D. Theoretical perspectives are only relevant for academic research, not for clinical practice.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The selection of a theoretical perspective matters because it determines how data is interpreted and influences the treatment approaches that are considered appropriate. Choice B is incorrect because different perspectives may lead to different interpretations and treatment strategies. Choice C is incorrect because different theoretical perspectives can result in varied treatment outcomes. Choice D is incorrect because theoretical perspectives play a crucial role in both academic research and clinical practice.

2. Professor Immel believes that behaviors that are predominant in certain species probably serve some adaptive function. Professor Immel's beliefs are most consistent with which perspective?

A. Behavioral perspective.
B. Cognitive perspective.
C. Humanistic perspective.
D. Evolutionary perspective.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Professor Immel's belief that behaviors in certain species serve an adaptive function aligns with the evolutionary perspective. The evolutionary perspective posits that behaviors have developed over time because they provide an advantage for survival and reproduction. This perspective emphasizes the role of natural selection in shaping behaviors based on their adaptive value. Choices A, B, and C do not specifically address the idea that behaviors have evolved to serve specific functions for survival, making them inconsistent with Professor Immel's beliefs.

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. While the term psychology has existed since at least the early 1700s, psychology did not come to be considered a science until?

A. The 1750s.
B. The early 1800s.
C. The late 1800s.
D. The 1940s.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Psychology became recognized as a science in the late 1800s, aligning with broader trends in scientific inquiry during that period. This marked the establishment of psychology as a distinct field of study based on empirical research and experimentation. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because psychology's formal recognition as a science occurred later, specifically in the late 1800s.

5. A major factor associated with a child's rejection by peers is ________.

A. Overly aggressive behavior.
B. Being too intelligent.
C. Socioeconomic background.
D. A lack of empathy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Overly aggressive behavior is often a major factor in a child's rejection by peers. Children who display overly aggressive behavior may intimidate or harm their peers, leading to social rejection. Being too intelligent or having a different socioeconomic background are not typically primary reasons for peer rejection. While empathy is important for healthy social interactions, a lack of empathy, on its own, is less likely to be a primary factor in peer rejection compared to overly aggressive behavior.