Mental Health and Illness Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts discussed in the lecture on mental health and illness, focusing on social factors, stigma, stressors, and the implications of status.

Social Construction of Mental Health

Focus on social factors that affect mental illness and its consequences, with the belief that mental illness is socially constructed.

Medicalization of Deviance

The process by which mental health problems, once viewed as deviant behavior, are now treated as medical issues, influenced by the medical profession and social movements.

Mental Health Stigma

The societal labeling and discrimination faced by individuals with mental illness, impacting their self-perception and behavior.

Modified Labeling Theory

The theory that being labeled as mentally ill can lead to behaviors that adversely affect mental health and self-esteem.

Stress Process Model

A model identifying the connections among stressful life events, social background, resources, and emotional or behavioral outcomes.

Negative Life Events

Unwanted or stressful events that can serve as significant stressors affecting mental health.

Chronic Strains

Accumulated small stresses experienced over time, contrasting with single, significant stress events.

Personal Resources

Individual capabilities such as self-efficacy and self-esteem used to manage stress.

Social Support

The assistance from people, groups, or organizations that helps individuals cope with stress.

Economic Status and Mental Health

The prevalence of mental health disorders is inversely related to economic status, with poorer individuals experiencing higher rates of mental illness.

Group Processes and Mental Health

Mental health can serve as a status characteristic affecting the expectations and contributions of individuals in group settings.