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. When examining heredity, mental disorders are almost always ________

A. influenced by one particular gene.
B. influenced by multiple genes.
C. influenced by recessive genes.
D. not influenced by genes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When examining heredity, mental disorders are influenced by multiple genes. Mental disorders are complex conditions that typically result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and other factors. While genetics play a significant role in predisposing individuals to mental disorders, it is rare for a single gene to be solely responsible for a mental disorder. Therefore, choice B is correct. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because mental disorders are not usually influenced by one particular gene, recessive genes specifically, or not influenced by genes at all.

3. What is the traditional cutoff in diagnosing intellectual disability?

A. IQ score below 80
B. IQ score below 70
C. IQ score below 60
D. IQ score below 50

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The traditional cutoff for diagnosing intellectual disability is an IQ score below 70. An IQ score below 70 is generally considered as the threshold for diagnosing intellectual disability. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the commonly accepted cutoff point for diagnosing intellectual disability.

4. What major departure did Freud's position have from prevailing viewpoints around the early 1900s?

A. Viewed abnormal behavior as resulting from biological causes.
B. Viewed people as not fully aware of the forces that control their behavior.
C. Proposed the existence of free will.
D. Emphasized environmental forces on behavior.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Freud's major departure from prevailing viewpoints around the early 1900s was that he viewed people as not fully aware of the forces that control their behavior. This is reflected in his emphasis on unconscious forces influencing behavior. Choice A is incorrect as Freud focused on psychological rather than solely biological causes. Choice C is incorrect as Freud's theory did not emphasize free will but rather unconscious drives. Choice D is incorrect as Freud emphasized internal psychological forces over external environmental factors.

5. In order for one to have a recessive trait (e.g., having red hair), the person must receive?

A. At least one copy of a recessive gene from a parent
B. Two copies of a recessive gene, one from each parent
C. At least one copy of a recessive gene and at least one copy of a dominant gene
D. At least two copies of a recessive gene from one parent

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Recessive traits are expressed when an individual inherits two copies of the recessive gene, one from each parent. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choice A is incorrect as one copy of a recessive gene is not sufficient to display a recessive trait. Choice C is incorrect because having at least one copy of a dominant gene is unrelated to expressing a recessive trait. Choice D is incorrect because two copies of a recessive gene must come from both parents, not just one.