Final Exam Study Guide: Psychotherapy and Pharmacotherapy

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on the study guide for the final exam in psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.

Pharmacotherapy

A treatment approach that uses medication to manage psychological disorders.

Psychotherapy

A treatment approach involving psychological techniques to address mental health issues.

Nocebo effect

Negative expectations leading to negative outcomes in treatment.

Combination Therapy

The use of both medication and psychotherapy in treatment for better efficacy.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

A common disabling psychiatric illness characterized by overwhelming sadness and loss of interest.

Antidepressants

Medications used to treat depression that may increase neurogenesis.

Therapeutic lag

The delay between the onset of drug action and the observable effects of the treatment.

Monoamine theory

A theory suggesting that low levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin are the primary cause of depression.

Negative Cognitive Triad

A concept by Beck that describes a negative view of the self, the world, and the future.

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

A protein vital for neuron survival and synaptic plasticity; low levels are associated with depression.

SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

A class of antidepressants that works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin.

Serotonin Syndrome

A potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin levels in the body.

Efficacy

The ability of a treatment to produce a beneficial effect under controlled conditions.

Meta-Analysis

A statistical analysis that combines the results of multiple scientific studies.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A type of psychotherapy focused on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts.

Comorbidity

The presence of one or more additional disorders co-occurring with a primary disorder.