Psychopathology: Past and Present Understanding

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on understanding psychopathology, from early models to modern approaches and mental health professions.

What were some early models of mental disorders?

Evil spirits, imbalances in the body, and the Devil.

According to Hippocrates, what was 'Hysteria'?

'The wandering uterus', where psychological symptoms were a result of the uterus moving around in the body.

What did Hippocrates link abnormality with, foreshadowing modern views?

Brain chemical imbalances.

Who pioneered the view of psychopathology as a psychological disease?

Freud.

Name some early treatments for mental disorders.

Electric shock, crude surgery (trephining), and major tranquilizers.

What four characteristics define 'abnormal' behavior?

Deviant, dangerous, dysfunctional (impairment), and distress.

How does psychopathology officially define a psychological disorder?

Psychological dysfunction associated with distress or impairment in functioning that is not typical or culturally expected.

What is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5)?

A widely accepted manual used for the diagnosis of psychological disorders.

What is the scientific study of psychological disorders called?

The field of psychopathology.

What does the Biopsychosocial Approach consider for understanding psychopathology?

Biological, psychological, social, cultural, and experiential models, considering reciprocal relations.

What is the core belief of the Biological Model regarding abnormal behavior?

The nervous system controls all thought and behavior, and any event or substance affecting it also affects thinking and behavior.

What is the goal of biological treatments for mental disorders?

To change a client’s physical condition in order to change thinking and behavior.

Which three neurotransmitters are mentioned as playing a role in the Biological Model?

Norepinephrine, Dopamine, and Serotonin.

What are genes composed of and where are they located?

Composed of DNA and located on chromosomes.

What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?

Genotype is the genetic status (e.g., having a certain allele), while phenotype is how it manifests in a person (e.g., blue eyes).

What is the Reciprocal Gene-Environment Model?

Outcomes are a result of interactions between genetic vulnerabilities and experience; environmental influences may override genetics.

According to behavior theory, what is all behavior a product of?

Learning.

According to cognitive theory, what is abnormal behavior a product of?

Distorted thinking.

What is the core belief of humanistic theory regarding people?

People are basically good and want to realize their potential.

Who proposed that human behavior is determined by each person’s unique perception of the world?

Rogers (Humanistic theory).

According to Freud's psychodynamic theory, what influences normal and abnormal behaviors?

Unconscious forces.

What is the focus of psychodynamic therapy?

Gaining insight into unconscious origins of behavior, understanding reliance on defense mechanisms, and repairing early relationships through the therapeutic relationship.

What do Sociocultural Theories explain abnormality in terms of?

External factors such as harmful environments, adverse social policies, powerlessness, and cultural traditions.

What is the Diathesis-Stress Model?

Abnormal behavior results from the combined effects of a predisposition/vulnerability for a disorder (diathesis) and a stressor.

How do cultural factors influence psychopathology?

They influence the form and expression of behavior.

What are some problems associated with the social stigma of psychopathology?

It may limit the degree to which people express mental health problems and discourage treatment seeking.

What is the primary role of a Psychiatrist?

As medical doctors, they can prescribe medication and have completed additional training in psychiatry.

What is the primary role of a Clinical Psychologist?

They have doctoral degrees and specialize in applying scientific methods to the study, assessment, and treatment of mental disorders, but generally cannot prescribe medication.

What is the primary role of a Psychiatric or Clinical Social Worker?

They primarily treat mental disorders and family problems, and work with communities and larger systems, usually with a master's degree in social work.

What is the Scientist-Practitioner model?

A model where practice (treatment delivery) and research mutually influence each other, requiring mental health professionals to stay current with research, evaluate their own work, and conduct research.