ATI RN
Psychological Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
In order for one to be diagnosed with panic disorder, the panic attacks must?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Suddenly; unexpectedly.' Panic disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks occur unexpectedly, not gradually. Panic attacks are characterized by their sudden onset and are unpredictable. Choice B is incorrect because panic attacks do not manifest gradually. Choice C is incorrect because panic attacks are not expected or predicted. Choice D is incorrect as well because the unexpected nature of panic attacks is a key criterion for diagnosing panic disorder.
Question 2 of 5
A male college student begins feeling sad and lonely. Although still able to go to classes and work at his job, he finds himself feeling down much of the time and worrying about what is happening to him. Which part of the definition of abnormality applies to his situation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Personal distress. In this scenario, the student is experiencing personal distress as he feels sad and lonely, despite being able to function in his daily life. Personal distress is a key criterion for determining abnormality as it signifies significant emotional discomfort. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as cultural factors, impaired functioning, and violation of societal norms are not the primary factors highlighted in the student's situation.
Question 3 of 5
Sandy took part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, where two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three spectators. For approximately 2 weeks after the marathon, Sandy was unable to sleep or concentrate and often found herself reliving the moment she heard the bombs explode. What disorder might Sandy be diagnosed with?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Sandy might be diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD typically develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing the event, avoidance of reminders of the event, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened reactivity. While acute stress disorder can occur shortly after a traumatic event, the duration of symptoms in the scenario suggests a more prolonged impact, aligning with PTSD. Phobic disorder and panic disorder are not as closely related to the described symptoms as PTSD.
Question 4 of 5
Which orientation focuses on symptoms rather than looking at underlying causes?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Psychodynamic. The psychodynamic orientation focuses on symptoms rather than underlying causes, emphasizing the importance of the unconscious mind. This approach views symptoms as manifestations of underlying psychological issues rooted in the unconscious. Choice B, Adlerian, is focused on individual psychology, social interests, and the importance of feelings of inferiority. Choice C, Jungian, is based on analytical psychology and the concepts of the collective unconscious and archetypes. Choice D, Behavioral, concentrates on observable behaviors and how they are learned and reinforced through interactions with the environment, rather than focusing on underlying causes.
Question 5 of 5
Latresha is not hungry, is extremely tired, and doesn't feel like doing much of anything. She often feels that life is just hopeless. These symptoms have been going on for 2 months now. She probably is suffering from which mood disorder?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Major Depressive Disorder. Latresha's symptoms of prolonged sadness, fatigue, and lack of interest in activities lasting for 2 months indicate a major depressive episode. Generalized anxiety disorder (A) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety, not necessarily prolonged sadness. Bipolar disorder (B) involves episodes of both mania and depression, not solely prolonged sadness. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (D) is characterized by obsessions and compulsions, not the symptoms described in the scenario.