Mental disorders are almost always _______, meaning they are influenced by multiple genes.

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Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test Questions

Question 1 of 9

Mental disorders are almost always _______, meaning they are influenced by multiple genes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'polygenic.' Mental disorders are polygenic, which means they are influenced by multiple genes. This term specifically refers to conditions or traits that are caused by more than one gene. Choice A, 'environmental,' is incorrect as it doesn't directly refer to the genetic influence on mental disorders. Choice B, 'chemical circuits,' is incorrect as it is too specific and not a common term used to describe the genetic basis of mental disorders. Choice D, 'probabilistic,' is incorrect as it relates more to the likelihood or chance of something happening rather than the genetic influence on mental disorders.

Question 2 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 3 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 4 of 9

What are culture-bound syndromes?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Culture-bound syndromes are disorders that are specific to certain cultural contexts. These syndromes may not be recognized or understood outside of the specific cultural context where they originate. Choice A is incorrect because culture-bound syndromes are not universal and are tied to specific cultural beliefs and practices. Choice C is incorrect as culture-bound syndromes are recognized in the field of psychology and anthropology. Choice D is incorrect as culture-bound syndromes are not limited to psychiatric hospitals but can be observed in various cultural settings.

Question 5 of 9

Newer psychodynamic perspectives ________.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Newer psychodynamic perspectives do not view the libido as a primary determinant of behavior. While Freud's theories focused heavily on the libido as a driving force, newer perspectives have evolved to consider a broader range of factors influencing behavior. Choice A is incorrect as newer perspectives still build upon some elements of Freud's theories. Choice B is incorrect as newer perspectives may not solely emphasize the role of the id. Choice D is incorrect as while intrapsychic conflicts are considered important, they are not always viewed as the sole primary determinant of behavior in newer psychodynamic perspectives.

Question 6 of 9

How does stress impact brain function?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Stress can lead to changes in brain structure and function, affecting mental health and increasing the risk of disorders. Choice A is incorrect as stress does affect brain function. Choice C is incorrect as stress generally has negative impacts on brain function rather than improving it. Choice D is incorrect because stress can have long-term impacts on brain function through structural and functional changes.

Question 7 of 9

An elementary school principal wants to know the best predictors of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school in high school so she can provide preventive interventions. Your best advice is ________.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The best advice is to look for aggression toward peers as the best predictor of juvenile delinquency and dropping out of school. Option A is incorrect because being popular or a class clown doesn't necessarily indicate delinquency. Option B is incorrect as not all silent, depressed loners end up as dropouts. Option C is incorrect as research shows that early signs of aggression can predict future delinquent behavior and school dropout rates, making it feasible to intervene early.

Question 8 of 9

Dana's mother suffers from serious depressive episodes. Dana is likely to ________.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When a family member, especially a parent, suffers from serious depressive episodes, it can increase the risk of depression in other family members, including children. Therefore, in this situation, Dana is likely to be at risk for depression herself. Choice B is incorrect because experiencing a parent's depression does not necessarily lead to becoming a happy-go-lucky child; it can have serious emotional implications. Choice C is incorrect as there is no direct link between a parent's depression and a child acting in an aggressive, criminal manner. Choice D may seem plausible, but it is not the most likely outcome in this scenario.

Question 9 of 9

Which perspective or viewpoint focuses on intrapsychic conflicts as the cause of psychopathology?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Psychodynamic. The psychodynamic perspective emphasizes the role of intrapsychic conflicts, often related to unconscious processes, in the development of psychopathology. This perspective, founded by Sigmund Freud, suggests that unresolved conflicts from early childhood experiences can manifest as mental health issues. Choice A, Biological, focuses on the physiological aspects of psychopathology, such as genetics and neurobiology. Choice B, Behavioral, looks at how behavior is learned and reinforced. Choice D, Sociocultural, considers the influence of social and cultural factors on mental health.

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