Psych 361 week 13

Homosexuality in DSM-II

Dropped in 1973 from outright pathologizing to 'sexual orientation disturbance.'

Ego-dystonic homosexuality

Defined in DSM-III as being mentally disordered due to societal prejudice causing a desire to change one's sexual orientation.

Sexual disorder not otherwise specified

Term used in DSM-IIIR for persistent distress about one’s sexual orientation.

Supreme Court ruling in 2013

Ruling against the Defense of Marriage Act, which was an anti-gay rights law.

Therapeutic neutrality

The concept that therapists can remain ethically or politically neutral, which is a myth.

Faulty reasoning in homosexuality pathology

The argument that homosexuality is pathological based on differences from heterosexuals assumes abnormality as a prerequisite.

Davison's question on therapy regimens

Questions how therapists can claim to be nonprejudiced while participating in treatments that reinforce societal bias.

Clinician's constructions of clinical problems

Clinicians often transform vague client complaints into diagnoses, reflecting biases in the process.

Impact of societal bias on homosexuality

Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals persists, leading to hate crimes and 'minority stress.'

Psychotherapy as community intervention

Psychotherapy viewed as part of a broader community psychology perspective, addressing institutional issues.

Role of stress in health

Stress can suppress immune functions and contribute to a variety of mental and physical health problems.

Stress appraisal

Stress is perceived as exceeding resources, with individual assessment being crucial.

Cognitive restructuring

A therapeutic approach to change unproductive belief systems to reduce stress, associated with Ellis and Beck.

Arousal reduction techniques

Methods like relaxation training and cognitive restructuring aimed at lowering stress levels.

Environmental stress management

Changing one's environment or seeking social support to reduce stress and improve well-being.

Positive psychology

An approach focused on cultivating positive attributes like love and joy alongside managing negative stress.

Resilience in stress management

Strategies to emphasize positive experiences and re-evaluate personal narratives to cope better.

Leading a good life

Understanding the complexities of life and stress management, balancing happiness and distress.

Burnout and meaning

The study of human happiness intersects with questions of purpose, values, and meaning in life.