you are interviewing a new member of the psychology department for the university newspaper the faculty member states internal states undoubtedly exis

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Psychological Exam

1. When interviewing a new member of the psychology department for the university newspaper, the faculty member states, 'Internal states undoubtedly exist, but it is not necessary to draw inferences about unobservable states in order to understand behavior.' This faculty member's views are most similar to the views held by?

A. William James.
B. F. Skinner.
C. Sigmund Freud.
D. Carl Rogers.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: F. Skinner's views emphasized the importance of observable behavior and dismissed the need to infer unobservable mental states. This aligns with the faculty member's statement that internal states exist but are not essential for understanding behavior. William James, known for his work in functionalism, did consider internal mental states important. Sigmund Freud focused on unconscious motives and internal conflicts. Carl Rogers emphasized the importance of subjective experiences and personal growth, which differs from the faculty member's perspective.

2. Most behavioral disorders are determined primarily by ________.

A. genetics
B. upbringing
C. diet
D. environment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Genetics play a significant role in the development of behavioral disorders. While upbringing, diet, and environment can also influence behavior, genetics are often the primary factor in determining behavioral disorders. Choice B (upbringing) can contribute to behavior but is not the sole determinant of behavioral disorders. Choice C (diet) can impact behavior but is not the primary factor in behavioral disorders. Choice D (environment) can also influence behavior, but genetics typically play a more significant role in determining behavioral disorders.

3. How do childhood experiences influence adult psychopathology?

A. Childhood experiences have no impact on adult psychopathology.
B. Childhood experiences can have a profound impact on adult psychopathology.
C. Childhood experiences are unrelated to adult psychopathology.
D. Childhood experiences have only a minimal impact on adult psychopathology.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Childhood experiences, such as trauma and attachment issues, can indeed have a profound impact on adult psychopathology. These experiences can shape an individual's psychological development, influencing their mental health and well-being throughout their life. Choice A is incorrect as research shows that childhood experiences do play a significant role in adult psychopathology. Choice C is also incorrect as there is evidence supporting the link between childhood experiences and adult psychopathology. Choice D is incorrect because childhood experiences can have more than just a minimal impact on adult psychopathology; they can be quite substantial.

4. Understanding the causes of mental disorders is important because ________

A. effective treatment is not possible without such an understanding.
B. classification of disorders cannot be done without such information.
C. such knowledge might make both the prevention and cure of mental disorders possible.
D. disagreements about the causes of psychopathology have long limited the advancements made in the study of abnormal psychology.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Understanding the causes of mental disorders is crucial because it can potentially lead to both prevention and cure. By identifying the root causes, strategies can be developed to prevent the onset of disorders, and effective treatments can be tailored to address these causes directly. This approach can make treatments more efficient, as addressing the underlying factors contributing to the disorder can result in better outcomes for individuals. Choices A and B are incorrect because while understanding causes is important for effective treatment and classification, the primary focus is on prevention and cure. Choice D, while highlighting the impact of disagreements on advancements in abnormal psychology, does not directly address the importance of understanding causes for prevention and cure.

5. Why is it discouraged to use terms such as 'schizophrenic', 'autistic', and 'retarded' when referring to people with mental illness?

A. These terms are no longer in the DSM
B. There are only a small number of people diagnosed with these terms
C. There is nothing wrong in using these terms
D. Because people with mental illness are not defined by their condition

Correct answer: D

Rationale: It is discouraged to use terms like 'schizophrenic', 'autistic', and 'retarded' when referring to people with mental illness because people with mental illness should not be defined solely by their condition. Using such labels can reduce individuals to just their diagnosis, overlooking their individuality and other aspects of their identity. It is essential to treat individuals with mental illness with respect and dignity, focusing on their humanity rather than reducing them to a label. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the main reason for discouraging these terms lies in not defining individuals by their conditions, rather than the terms being in or out of the DSM, the number of diagnosed individuals, or the perception of whether there is anything wrong with using such terms.