Abnormal Psych Exam Revision Flashcards
(131 cards)
How do we define what is normal and what is abnormal?
Normal and abnormal are defined through subjective decisions, with no clear line between them.
This includes various criteria such as cultural relativism, unusualness of behavior, and distress.
What is the Continuum Model of Abnormality?
It suggests there is no clear line between normal and abnormal behavior, requiring subjective decisions.
This model emphasizes the grey areas in defining psychological disorders.
What does cultural relativism imply in the context of abnormality?
It suggests that there are no universal standards for labeling behavior as abnormal; behaviors are abnormal only relative to cultural norms.
Example: Family sleeping arrangements vary across cultures.
What are the criteria for abnormal behavior?
- Cultural relativism
- Unusualness of behavior
- Distress
Distress refers to the discomfort experienced by the individual exhibiting the behavior.
What is the definition of mental illness?
A condition characterized by thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that create dysfunction and can impair daily life.
There is no medical test to identify mental illness; diagnosis is based on symptoms.
What are the Four ‘D’s of Abnormality?
- Dysfunction
- Distress
- Deviance
- Danger
These criteria help in evaluating whether a behavior is considered abnormal.
What does the term psychopathology refer to?
The study of psychological disorders and their symptoms.
It encompasses the understanding of various mental illnesses and their manifestations.
What is the etiology of psychological disorders?
The causes of disorders.
Etiology can include biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
What are the historical views on mental illness?
- Supernatural theories
- Somatogenic theories
- Psychogenic theories
These theories reflect different perspectives on the origins of mental illness throughout history.
What is trephination?
A surgical practice dating back to as early as 6500 BC involving drilling holes in skulls to treat head injuries and mental disorders.
It was believed to release evil spirits causing mental illness.
What role did Philippe Pinel play in mental health reform?
He advocated for more humane treatment of the mentally ill in the late 1700s.
His efforts marked a significant shift in the treatment of individuals with psychological disorders.
What is the biopsychosocial model in mental health?
A model that emphasizes the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding disorders.
It recognizes that multiple influences contribute to mental health.
What is the difference between involuntary and voluntary treatment?
Involuntary treatment is not chosen by the individual, while voluntary treatment is sought by the individual to relieve symptoms.
This distinction is important in understanding patient autonomy in mental health care.
What is the significance of the DSM-5?
It is used for diagnosing psychological disorders and provides standardized criteria for classification.
The DSM-5 is a critical tool for mental health professionals.
What characterizes Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?
Excessive anxiety or worry for at least 6 months about various aspects of life. Symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
At least three symptoms must be present that are not related to another anxiety disorder.
What is the difference between fear and anxiety?
Fear is an immediate reaction to a threat, while anxiety involves apprehension regarding potential threats.
Anxiety serves a motivational purpose, prompting preparatory actions.
What is a panic attack?
A period of extreme fear or discomfort that develops abruptly and peaks within 10 minutes.
Symptoms may include heart palpitations, sweating, and feelings of losing control.
What is a specific phobia?
An excessive, persistent fear of a specific object or situation, leading to significant distress.
Common examples include fear of heights or spiders.
What is social anxiety disorder?
Characterized by extreme fear and avoidance of social situations where one might be negatively evaluated.
It often develops from early negative social experiences.
What are the criteria for diagnosing separation anxiety disorder?
- Excessive distress related to separation
- Persistent worry about losing attachment figures
- Reluctance to be alone or away from home
Symptoms must persist for at least four weeks in children and six months in adults.
What is selective mutism?
An anxiety disorder where a person cannot speak in specific situations despite being capable of speech.
It often coexists with social anxiety disorder.
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Experiencing thoughts and urges that are intrusive and unwanted (obsessions) and/or the need to engage in repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions).
Obsessions are persistent and distressing thoughts, while compulsions are repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety.
Define Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).
Being preoccupied with a perceived flaw in one’s physical appearance that is either nonexistent or barely noticeable to others.
This disorder often leads to behaviors such as excessive mirror checking and comparisons with others.
What percentage of the general population is estimated to have Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
Approximately 2%.
BDD is associated with higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts.