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Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology Flashcards

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  1. According to the DSM-5, which criterion is central to defining a psychological disorder?

    Answer: Distress or functional impairment in the individual

    The DSM-5 defines mental disorders primarily by clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

  2. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) requires the presence of a depressive episode lasting at least:

    Answer: 2 weeks

    DSM-5 requires depressive symptoms to be present most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks to diagnose a major depressive episode.

  3. Which neurotransmitter is most associated with the monoamine hypothesis of depression?

    Answer: Serotonin

    The monoamine hypothesis of depression focuses primarily on serotonin (and norepinephrine) deficiencies, which led to the development of SSRIs as a treatment.

  4. In the DSM-5, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not for at least:

    Answer: 6 months

    GAD requires persistent, excessive worry about multiple topics for at least 6 months, along with associated physical and cognitive symptoms.

  5. What distinguishes Bipolar I Disorder from Bipolar II Disorder?

    Answer: Bipolar I involves at least one full manic episode; Bipolar II involves hypomania only

    Bipolar I is defined by at least one manic episode (which may be severe enough to require hospitalization), while Bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes that never reach full mania.

  6. The 'diathesis-stress model' of psychopathology proposes that mental disorders arise from:

    Answer: The interaction between a biological or psychological vulnerability and environmental stressors

    The diathesis-stress model posits that disorders result from the combination of a predisposing vulnerability (diathesis) and precipitating stressors in the environment.