Psychological Disorders and the Diathesis Stress Model

These flashcards cover key concepts of psychological disorders, the diathesis stress model, and specific types of anxiety disorders, helping to facilitate review and understanding for an upcoming exam.

What does the diathesis stress model explain about identical twins or siblings in developing psychological disorders?

It explains that identical genetics do not guarantee both will suffer from the same disorder due to differing levels of stress and vulnerability.

What are the two components of the diathesis stress model?

Diathesis, which is predisposition or vulnerability, and stress from life experiences.

What are the biological, psychological, and social factors in the biopsychosocial model related to psychological disorders?

Biological factors include genetics and brain chemistry; psychological factors include stress and trauma; social factors include societal roles and expectations.

How did learned helplessness relate to the development of anxiety disorders?

Learned helplessness occurs when a person learns, often from early life experiences, that they have no control over their circumstances, leading to avoidance of stressful situations.

What is the main emotion associated with anxiety?

Fear.

How are anxiety and fear different?

Fear is an immediate reaction to threat, while anxiety is the persistent apprehension and avoidance related to potential threats.

Anxiety disorders involve excessive and persistent what?

Fear and anxiety, along with disturbances in behavior.

What percentage of the U.S. population is estimated to experience an anxiety disorder in their lifetime?

25 to 30 percent.

What are specific phobias?

Excessive, distressing, and persistent fears about specific objects or situations that are often recognized as irrational.

What therapy is commonly used for specific phobias?

Graded exposure therapy.

What is panic disorder characterized by?

Recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, along with persistent concern about having more attacks.

What is agoraphobia?

An intense fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or embarrassing, often related to having panic attacks.

What defines social anxiety disorder?

Persistent fear and avoidance of social situations due to fear of being judged.

What is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

A continuous state of excessive and uncontrollable worry not attached to any specific thing.

How many symptoms are needed for a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder?

At least three symptoms from a specific list.

What distinguishes obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) from other anxiety disorders?

OCD requires both obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors to relieve the obsessions).

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

A disorder that arises after exposure to a traumatic event, characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, and avoidance of reminders.