3. A. Healthy Relationships and Mental and Emotional Health Flashcards
This deck covers factors influencing relationships, including socioeconomics, family dynamics, communication, decision-making, psychosocial development, human sexuality, and strategies for promoting healthy interactions, preventing abuse, and addressing mental health.
What defines family dynamics?
They refer to the patterns of interactions, relationships, and roles within a family unit.
These dynamics can differ among family members and influence one another.
What factors can influence family dynamics?
- Ages
- Parental support or lack thereof
- Personalities
- Intergenerational homes
- Disabilities
- Addictions
- Divorce
- Trauma
- Grief
- Culture
- Traditions
These factors can create intricate dynamics within families.
What is an example of an authoritarian family dynamic?
This is characterized by strict rules, high expectations, and a low level of warmth and communication.
The child may feel shut down when questioning the rules.
Fill in the blank:
Authoritarian parents expect high performance, but _______ children’s social needs.
ignore
This can lead to negative emotional outcomes for the child.
What is a drawback of authoritarian parenting?
Authoritarian parenting can lead to:
- Lower self-esteem and happiness.
- Increased anxiety and stress.
- Negative impact on emotional development.
Describe a family dynamic characterized by competitiveness.
Family members are always in competition to see who can do better than the others.
Siblings may compete for the best report card.
What characterizes an uninvolved family dynamic?
Family members are neglected by a member who is either absent or physically present but inattentive.
An example is a parent who prioritizes work over family time.
What defines a communal family dynamic?
Every member feels valued and can share their thoughts and opinions openly.
Parents listen and provide advice without harshness.
What characterizes a healthy family dynamic?
- Open communication
- Emotional support
- Shared authority and responsibilities
- Respect
- Safety
- Love
These factors help build strong relationships among family members.
What are cultural dynamics in the context of family?
Determined by one’s culture and impact family functioning.
Factors include:
- Gender roles
- Religious views
- How family is defined
What are some signs of a dysfunctional family?
- Little to no communication
- Judgmental attitudes
- Mental/physical/emotional abuse
- Toxic living environment
These signs can shape interactions within the family.
Define:
Personality Traits
Characteristics that describe an individual’s personality, including:
- Thoughts
- Feelings
- Behaviors
Personality traits remain stable throughout life and are influenced by:
- Genes
- Environment
List:
The five primary personality traits.
- Openness
- Conscientiousness
- Extraversion
- Agreeableness
- Neuroticism
What does openness mean in relation to personality traits?
Willingness to learn new things and engage in new experiences, often associated with creativity and abstract thinking.
Individuals high in openness are generally open to change.
Define conscientiousness as a personality trait.
An individual’s ability to control impulses and their level of organizational skills.
Highly conscientious individuals are responsible and organized.
What characterizes an individual with high extraversion?
- Outgoing
- Social
- Enjoying being the center of attention
Individuals low in extraversion tend to be reserved and dislike large social gatherings.
Define agreeableness in personality traits.
- Focuses on kindness
- Dependability
- Cooperativeness
High agreeableness is associated with being caring and collaborative.
How are personality traits commonly assessed?
Through self-report assessments that require individuals to answer questions about their:
- Attitudes
- Beliefs
- Values
- Behaviors
These assessments can be conducted via:
- Paper
- Computer
- Interviews
What is the definition of tolerance?
A fair and objective attitude towards others, usually a conscious effort from the individual.
What are some synonyms for tolerance?
- Allowance
- Acceptance
- Impartiality
- Parity
- Fairness
- Equivalence
How does tolerance contribute to individual happiness?
Promotes individualism and expression of personal interests and beliefs.
How does empathy relate to tolerance?
Encourages moral behavior by understanding how others feel.
What role does the brain play in tolerance?
Responsible for the cognitive processes that allow for tolerance.
What is the primary role of a healthy family?
The primary role of a healthy family is to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where all members can thrive emotionally, physically, and socially.
What are the basic needs provided by a child’s family?
- Food
- Shelter
- Protection
- Identity
The economic environment impacts family behavior by:
- Causing food and shelter insecurity
- Limiting access to basic needs like healthcare
What are the four types of environments that impact family behavior?
- Economic
- Social and Cultural
- Physical
- Political
Fill in the blank:
The science of _________ studies how environments alter the function of genes.
Epigenetics
What is the definition of a healthy relationship?
A relationship where both people maintain their individuality while being committed to each other.
It is characterized by:
- Mutual respect
- Trust
- Honesty
- Commitment
- Empathy
What defines an unhealthy relationship?
A relationship where one person is more invested than the other, often leading to emotional or physical abuse.
It may include behaviors like:
- Guilt-tripping
- Refusal to listen
- Controlling actions
What are some major red flags in an unhealthy relationship?
- Lack of commitment
- Unhealthy self-image
- Addictions
- Mental illness without support
- Physical or emotional abuse
- Dishonest communication
- Infidelity
- Controlling behavior
These signs indicate significant issues that need addressing.
What are the five types of unhealthy relationships?
- Abusive
- Resentful
- Carefree
- Stagnant
- Enabler
Each type has distinct characteristics that can harm the individuals involved.
What is a key difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships?
- Healthy relationships have trust and respect.
- Unhealthy relationships are often marked by dishonesty or secrecy.
What should be the first step in addressing an unhealthy relationship?
Recognize the unhealthy behaviors present in the relationship.
This awareness is crucial for initiating change or seeking help.
What is the role of motives in influencing behavior?
Motives are biological and psychological needs or desires that drive behavior, such as:
- Hunger
- Ambition
Motives can lead to specific behavioral responses in different situations.
True or False:
Neuroticism refers to a person’s level of emotional stability.
True
High neuroticism indicates greater emotional instability.
Which of the following best describes the characteristic of extraversion?
A. Focused on internal thoughts and feelings.
B. Attention directed outward toward the external environment and social interactions.
C. Preference for solitary activities.
D. Inclination towards introspection and reflection.
B. Attention directed outward toward the external environment and social interactions.
How are cognitive biases defined?
These are unconscious errors in thinking that develop due to limitations in the brain’s ability to understand presented knowledge.
They form through the interpretation of data and can be influenced by various factors.
What are the three types of social biases discussed?
- Prejudice
- Stereotyping
- Discrimination
A bias is a prejudice or inclination for or against something that is generally considered unfair.
How is prejudice defined?
An emotional bias based on social identity.
It can be positive or negative, affecting perceptions of individuals from specific social groups.
What is an example of positive prejudice?
Having positive feelings toward individuals based on their religion.
Prejudice is the emotion, while discrimination is the action.
What is the definition of a stereotype?
A cognitive bias based on assumptions about a social group.
Stereotypes ignore individual differences within the group.
Stereotypes can be positive or negative, but even positive stereotypes can lead to harmful outcomes.
What is the definition of discrimination?
A behavioral bias leading to actions against individuals based on their social identity.
Discrimination can occur on both individual and institutional levels.
What is racism?
The belief that one race is superior to others, leading to discrimination and prejudice against people based on their race or ethnicity.
Define:
Colorism
A form of discrimination based on the shade of an individual’s skin tone, often within the same racial or ethnic group.
It differs from racism, which targets people of color based on their ethnicity.
True or False:
Implicit prejudice is always aligned with a person’s expressed beliefs.
False
Individuals may profess not to hold stereotypes while unconsciously harboring biases.
How is biological sex defined?
A spectrum explaining an individual’s makeup at birth, based on:
- Anatomy
- Physiological traits
What does sexual orientation describe?
An individual’s enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction to others.
Fill in the blank:
_________ is the advocacy for equal rights for women based on equality of all sexes.
Feminism
What was the Supreme Court’s verdict in Brown v. Board of Education?
It was unlawful for public schools to exclude students based on race.
This verdict led to widespread desegregation of schools in the United States.
What were the initial effects of desegregation in schools?
- Racism increased.
- African American students’ self-esteem was negatively affected.
Some psychologists attributed these outcomes to the competitive nature of classrooms.
How do individual prejudice and institutional prejudice differ?
- Individual prejudice is personal bias.
- Institutional prejudice exists within the rules or norms of an institution.
Examples include personal biases like Tom’s versus systemic issues seen in workplaces.
Define:
Catharsis
It is when we get rid of negative emotions by engaging in something like art or venting.
Catharsis is often thought of as a way to relieve emotional pressure.
What physiological response occurs after engaging in aggression?
- Engaging in aggression floods our bodies with adrenaline.
- Making our hearts beat fast.
- Giving a feeling of strength.
This feel-good response may contribute to the belief in catharsis.
How does aggression reduce barriers to further aggression?
If an individual does not face consequences for aggressive behavior, they realize they can get away with it.
This realization can encourage future acts of aggression.
What is a potential consequence of blaming the victim of aggression?
Less guilt means that the aggressor is likely to engage in aggressive behavior again, especially towards a victim they blame.
This cycle perpetuates aggression in social interactions.
What are overarching factors that influence major life decisions for couples?
- Goals
- Finances
- Career
- Compatibility
These factors guide couples in making significant life choices.
Define compatibility in the context of couple decision-making.
Refers to the degree to which partners align in their values, goals, preferences, and communication styles.
Compatibility includes trust and alignment of major life goals.
What are some factors a couple should consider when deciding to have children?
- Core values
- Parenting styles
- Financial Stability
- Emotional Readiness
- Health Considerations
- Support Systems
- Career and Life Goals
Understanding each other’s parenting philosophies is crucial before having children.
What challenges may new parents face during the first few months of parenthood?
- Added work and responsibilities.
- Sleep deprivation.
- Less personal time.
- Decline in marital satisfaction.
What is a normal part of family life that influences decision making?
- Conflict
- Communication
Conflict can be defined as disagreement and tension among family members.
What are some common topics that can lead to family decision making?
- Moving to a new town.
- Summer vacation.
- Caring for an aging relative.
These topics can range from routine decisions to more stressful issues.
What personal aspects influence family decision making?
- Values
- Temperament
- Personal experiences
- Relationships
Values are core beliefs shaped by family context and individual experiences.
How can differing values lead to conflict in a family decision?
These can lead to conflict in family decision-making because each family member’s values shape their perspectives, priorities, and expectations.
Different family members may prioritize different values when making decisions.
Define:
Respect
(in the context of relationships)
It means valuing and acknowledging each other’s thoughts, feelings, boundaries, and individuality.
Mutual respect is crucial for positive relationships.
How can understanding each other’s interests contribute to relationship development?
In several meaningful ways:
- Shared Experiences
- Improved Communication
- Increased Empathy
- Support and Encouragement
- Conflict Reduction
- Emotional Connection
This can be done through shared activities like outings.
What major life events influence adult growth and development?
- Marriage
- Parenthood
- Children leaving home
- Grandparenthood
These life events significantly impact an adult’s physical, mental, and emotional development.
What is the acronym used to remember the five stages of dying?
DABDA
Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Acceptance
What characterizes the denial stage?
This is the initial phase of grief where individuals struggle to accept the reality of a loss or a traumatic event. Key elements of this stage include:
- Shock and Numbness
- Disbelief
- Avoidance
- Withdrawal
- Temporary Defense Mechanism
Patients may seek second opinions or distract themselves from the diagnosis.
What emotions are commonly experienced in the anger stage?
- Anger
- Frustration
- Irritability
- Resentment
- Bitterness
- Blame
Patients may question ‘Why me?’ and may direct anger toward loved ones.
What is a key behavior in the bargaining stage?
During this stage, individuals often attempt to negotiate or make deals with themselves, a higher power, or fate in an effort to reverse or lessen the impact of the loss.
Patients may promise to change behaviors in exchange for a different outcome.
What does the depression stage involve?
Deep feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair as individuals begin to fully grasp the magnitude of their loss. Key elements of this stage include:
- Profound Sadness
- Isolation
- Fatigue
- Crying
- Guilt and Regret
- Difficulty Concentrating
Patients may experience changes in eating and sleeping habits and may refuse visitors.
What is the defining characteristic of the acceptance stage?
Coming to terms with the reality of the loss and finding a way to move forward.
Patients may discuss funeral arrangements and show a lack of strong emotions.
What is the importance of communication in professional settings?
Essential for success and networking in the workplace.
Effective communication promotes professional advancement and builds relationships.
What are the two main categories of communication?
- Formal communication
- Informal communication
These categories impact how information is conveyed and received.
Define:
Formal Communication
Structured and uniformed communication intended to be concise and efficient.
Often follows specific rules and is used in professional contexts.
Identify some modes of formal communication.
- Emails
- Memos
- Formal one-to-one meetings
- Presentations
- Meetings
- Public Addresses
These modes are typically used to meet administrative goals.
Define:
Informal Communication
Spontaneous communication without a rigorous structure.
It occurs between friends and family, satisfying personal interests.
How is active listening defined?
Engaging in the conversation by focusing on what the other individual is saying.
Active listening involves:
- Paying attention
- Reflecting on the message
Why is effective listening significant?
- Saves time.
- Creates a safe environment.
- Releases negative energy.
- Makes the person feel understood.
Effective listening builds stronger relationships.
What are some traits of a good listener?
- Focus solely on the speaker.
- Show interest.
- Avoid interrupting.
- Withhold judgment.
These traits help ensure effective communication.
What are the six types of communication?
- Oral
- Interpersonal
- Nonverbal
- Written
- Visual
- Listening
Each type serves a specific role in effective communication.
What does nonverbal communication include?
- Body language
- Facial expressions
- Eye contact
- Vocal tones
- Pitch
- Gestures
Nonverbal cues can convey emotions and reactions without words.
What does folded arms typically signal in communication?
- Rejection
- Defensiveness
Body posture can send strong nonverbal signals about a person’s feelings.
What is conflict resolution?
The process where two or more parties work together to resolve a conflict with agreement on the solution proposed.
It can be formal or informal and works best when conducted quickly with input from all parties.
What are conflict resolution skills?
Skills that enable a person to quickly, respectfully, and effectively resolve conflict.
These skills include:
- Assertiveness
- Active listening
- Problem-solving
- Empathy
- Effective communication
What are some benefits of conflict resolution skills?
Building relationships that foster mutual respect and trust, leading to creativity and stronger relationships.
Healthy relationships often involve conflict, but resolving it peacefully enhances these relationships.
What is the role of empathy in conflict resolution?
To effectively imagine what the opposite person is feeling or experiencing, enabling objective consideration of contributions to the conflict.
Empathy is central to understanding the impact of one’s actions on others.
How is passive-aggressive communication defined?
A communication style where the communicator appears calm but feels anger or resentment internally, acting out in subversive ways.
This style often involves manipulation tactics like:
- Use of sarcasm
- Rolling eyes
- Delaying tasks
- Silent treatment
- Talking to themselves under their breath
Define:
Passive Communication
An avoidance style of communication that does not express personal feelings and prioritizes others’ needs over one’s own.
This style often leads to inner turmoil and may result in outbursts of anger.
What can cause passive-aggressive communication?
Feelings held inside and unresolved conflicts between parties, often stemming from a sense of powerlessness.
Passive-aggressive communicators may fear showing weakness or initiating honest conversations.
What are some common characteristics of passive communicators?
- Soft voice
- Frequent apologies
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Not speaking up in meetings
- Allowing others to speak on their behalf
Passive communicators often feel unheard and taken advantage of.
What is aggressive communication?
A high emotional, high energy communication style focused on winning the conversation, often through bullying and coercion.
Aggressive communicators do not respect others’ boundaries and frequently interrupt.
Identify examples of aggressive communication.
- ‘I don’t care what you have to say, I’m right.’
- ‘Will you shut up? I’m talking!’
- ‘This whole situation is entirely your fault. I’m done here.’
These statements illustrate a lack of empathy and a focus on dominating the conversation.
What defines assertive communication?
An effective communication style where the communicator is clear about their needs while remaining respectful and empathetic.
Assertive communicators listen actively and maintain a calm demeanor.
What are the characteristics of assertive communicators?
- Clear intentions
- Firm without being aggressive
- Active listening
- Maintains eye contact
- Willing to compromise
Assertive communication fosters healthy interactions.
Define:
Refusal Skills
Strategies or methods used to say ‘‘no’‘ in pressured situations.
Refusal skills help avoid dangerous behaviors, such as drug or alcohol use.
Identify two strategies to use during peer pressure situations.
- Make eye contact.
- Stay firm and committed to the answer.
These strategies reinforce the refusal and help maintain confidence.
How do the physical changes of puberty affect social and emotional experiences?
Changes can lead to mood swings and new social experiences, such as:
- Increased attention from peers.
- Romantic interest.
Define:
High-Risk Sexual Behaviors
Any sexual act that could likely result in harm to the people involved.
High-risk behaviors can lead to:
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
- Unwanted pregnancies
- Unhealthy relationships
What psychosocial conflict defines adolescence, and how does it influence identity formation?
The conflict is identity vs. role confusion.
This stage marks a transition toward independence and self-awareness.
In Erik Erikson’s theory, what is the primary psychosocial task during adulthood?
The key task is intimacy vs. isolation.
Healthy relationships contribute to emotional well-being and life satisfaction.
What is the focus of psychosocial development in late adulthood?
The focus is integrity vs. despair.
Successful resolution leads to wisdom and acceptance of life’s journey.
