Psychopathology and Treatment Models

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on psychopathology and various treatment models including the DSM, ICD, cognitive behavioral therapy, and humanistic psychology.

What does DSM stand for and how is it related to the ICD?

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; it's a classification system used primarily in the USA whereas ICD is the International Classification of Diseases used globally.

What neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the biomedical model of psychopathology?

Serotonin.

What is the main focus of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

CBT focuses on the interaction between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to treat psychological distress.

What is classical conditioning?

A learning process in which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus, eliciting a conditioned response.

What are the two main types of conditioning discussed in the behaviorist approach?

Classical conditioning and operant conditioning.

According to Aaron Beck, what is the ‘negative cognitive triad’?

A model describing the three negative views that are characteristic of depression: negative views of self, the world, and the future.

What does the term ‘conditions of worth’ refer to in humanistic psychology?

Conditions imposed by others that dictate a person's sense of self-worth and can lead to psychological distress.

What are SSRIs and what are they used for?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; they are medications used as antidepressants.

What are cognitive distortions?

Inaccurate ways of thinking that lead to negative emotions and behaviors.

What does the behaviorist approach emphasize as the cause of psychopathology?

Maladaptive behaviors learned through environmental experiences.

What is the primary goal of systematic desensitization?

To unlearn fears by gradually exposing a person to the feared object while maintaining a relaxed state.

What is cognitive restructuring?

A cognitive therapy technique that aims to identify and challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more rational thoughts.

What is the central assumption of the humanistic approach to psychology?

Humans are inherently good and have the potential to self-actualize if given the right supportive environment.

What does ‘unconditional positive regard’ mean in the context of therapy?

Accepting and valuing a person without any conditions attached.

What is a key relationship principle in the person-centered approach?

The therapeutic relationship must be non-directive, allowing the client to lead their own process of change.

What is operant conditioning?

A learning principle where behaviors are modified by their consequences, such as rewards (reinforcers) or punishments.

What role do negative automatic thoughts play in psychological distress?

They are irrational thoughts that can exacerbate symptoms of mental health issues, particularly associated with depression.

What are the three key components of cognitive restructuring in therapy?

Collaborative empiricism, verbal interventions, and empirical hypothesis testing.

What approach does behavior therapy rely on for modifying behaviors?

Principles of operant conditioning, using reinforcement and punishment to influence behaviors.

What is the biomedical model’s perspective on psychopathology?

That psychological issues have a biological basis, often linked to genetic or neurochemical factors.