AP Psych - Unit 5.3 Explaining and Classifying Psychological Disorders

Psychological Disorder

• any condition characterized by cognitive and emotional disturbances, abnormal behaviors, impacted functioning, or any combination of these

Abnormal Psychology

• a branch of psychology that is concerned with mental and emotional disorders

DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders)

• developed by the APA

• a comprehensive classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the U.S.

• lists symptoms, criteria for diagnosis, and statistical data

• continues to adapt as society evolves

ICD (International Classification of Diseases)

• developed by the World Health Organization\

• creates a global standard for classifying health conditions, including mental and behavioral disorders

Eclectic Approach

• combines different techniques, theories, and ideas from different psychological perspectives

• allows psychologists to create more personalized treatment plans

Four Dimensions of DSM-5

1. Deviant

2. Distressing

3. Dysfunctional

4. Dangerous

Deviant

• describes behaviors that are not common in a society and/or goes against the cultural norms

Distressing

• occurs when an individual experiences a highly upsetting and unwelcoming situation

Dysfunctional

• the disorder disrupts a person’s regular activities, which can heavily impact their relationships

Dangerous

• the disorder causes the person to become a danger to themselves or others

Biopsychosocial Model

• proposes that the development of any psychological issue is influenced by multiple interconnected factors

• focuses on biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors

• approaches psychological disorder from a holistic perspective

Diathesis-Stress Model

focuses on how psychological disorders come from the interaction between genetic/biological vulnerabilities and stressful life events

• Diathesis; focus on how genetic predispositions or underlying biological factors impact an individual

• Stress; focus on how an individual’s environment can cause significant life challenges