Distinguish between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes of abnormal behavior.

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Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test Questions

Question 1 of 9

Distinguish between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes of abnormal behavior.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In understanding abnormal behavior, it is crucial to differentiate between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes. Necessary causes are those that are required for a disorder to develop, meaning that without them, the disorder would not occur. However, their presence does not guarantee the occurrence of the disorder. Sufficient causes, on the other hand, are those that alone can guarantee the development of a disorder, but they are not the only factors that can lead to it. Contributory causes are factors that increase the likelihood of a disorder but are not essential on their own nor do they guarantee the disorder. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the role of necessary causes in the development of abnormal behavior. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they misrepresent the definitions and roles of sufficient and contributory causes in causing abnormal behavior.

Question 2 of 9

Which of the following is not a common method for studying genetic influences?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Studying specific gene defects is not a common method for investigating genetic influences. Choices B, C, and D are common methods used in genetic research. Twin studies help determine the heritability of traits, adoption studies compare similarities between adopted individuals and their adoptive families versus biological families, and family history studies track the inheritance patterns of traits within families.

Question 3 of 9

Which psychosexual stage focuses on castration anxiety?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Castration anxiety is a concept from Freudian psychoanalytic theory that occurs during the Phallic stage. This stage occurs between 3 to 6 years of age and is when children experience conflicts related to the Oedipus complex (boys) and Electra complex (girls). During this stage, children may fear castration (in boys) or penis envy (in girls), which are crucial components of castration anxiety. Therefore, the correct answer is Phallic. The other options (A: Genital, B: Oral, C: Anal) are incorrect as they do not specifically involve castration anxiety but rather represent different stages in Freud's psychosexual development theory.

Question 4 of 9

What is object-relations theory?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Object-relations theory is a psychodynamic theory that focuses on how individuals interact with others and their internalized relationships. Choice A is incorrect because object-relations theory goes beyond observable behaviors to explore internalized relationships. Choice C is incorrect because object-relations theory does not primarily emphasize cognitive processes. Choice D is incorrect because object-relations theory is not a cognitive-behavioral theory focused on changing thought patterns.

Question 5 of 9

One important contribution of Freud's theory was that ________.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Freud's important contribution was that he applied the same principles to both normal and abnormal behavior. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of human behavior without creating a rigid distinction between normal and abnormal psychology. Choice A is incorrect because Freud's theory did not primarily focus on the role of women in society. Choice B is incorrect as Freud's theories were largely based on clinical observations and case studies rather than experimental evidence. Choice D is incorrect as Freud's theory emphasized the unconscious mind and conflicts rather than solely focusing on positive growth for individuals.

Question 6 of 9

When examining heredity, mental disorders are almost always ________

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.

Question 7 of 9

A predisposition toward developing a disorder is termed a __________ .

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A predisposition toward developing a disorder is termed a diathesis. In this context, diathesis refers to an individual's susceptibility or predisposition to developing a disorder. A diathesis is not the same as a risk factor or a sufficient cause. A risk factor is a variable that increases the likelihood of developing a disorder but is not a predisposition itself. A sufficient cause is a factor that can produce the disorder on its own, not just a predisposition.

Question 8 of 9

What role do hormones play in mental health and behavior?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Hormones play a critical role in regulating mood, behavior, and mental health, influencing everything from stress response to emotional stability. Choice A is incorrect because hormones have a significant impact on mental health in addition to physical processes. Choice C is incorrect as hormones do have a notable effect on behavior. Choice D is incorrect as hormones have broad functions beyond just reproductive processes.

Question 9 of 9

The four parenting styles described in the text differ along two dimensions: warmth and control. The style associated with the most positive developmental outcome is best described as ________ in warmth and ________ in control.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'high in warmth and moderately high in control.' The authoritative parenting style, associated with the most positive developmental outcomes, is characterized by high levels of warmth and support coupled with moderately high levels of control. This balance allows children to develop independence while feeling secure and valued. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the authoritative style is not characterized by low warmth or low control, but rather high warmth and moderate control.

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