Theoretical Perspectives on Psychopathology

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering essential concepts and terms related to theoretical perspectives on psychopathology.

Etiology

The study of the cause or origin of a disorder

Biopsychosocial model

An interactionist approach integrating biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding psychopathology

Neurotransmitters

Chemical substances that transmit messages between neurons in the brain

Autonomic nervous system

Part of the peripheral nervous system controlling involuntary bodily functions; includes sympathetic and parasympathetic systems

HPA axis

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; a central stress response system that regulates hormones like cortisol

Psychodynamic theories

Theories that emphasize unconscious processes and childhood experiences in controlling behavior

Id, Ego, Superego

Freudian concepts of personality; Id is driven by the pleasure principle, ego by reality, and superego by moral standards

Defense mechanisms

Psychological strategies used by the ego to manage conflict between Id and superego

Classical conditioning

Learning process where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus, eliciting a conditioned response

Schemas

Mental structures that help organize and interpret information, influencing how we perceive the world

Humanistic theory

Psychological perspective emphasizing personal growth and self-actualization as key to health

Existentialism

Philosophical perspective focusing on individual existence, freedom, and choice, with a concern for meaning in life

Concordance

The occurrence of the same trait or disorder in both members of a pair of twins or family members.

Social stigma

Negative attitudes or discrimination toward individuals with mental health issues, affecting their social status and treatment

DSM

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; a classification of mental disorders used in diagnosis and treatment.

Comorbidity

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

Clinical significance

Practical relevance of research findings in a clinical setting, indicating the effect has real-world implications.

Generalized anxiety disorder

A mental disorder characterized by excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not for at least six months.

Panic attack

A sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort that triggers severe physical reactions without an actual danger.

Agoraphobia

A type of anxiety disorder where a person fears and avoids places or situations that might cause panic or feeling trapped.