Psychological Models/Lens

Biological premise

The brain is the underlying cause of psychopathology

Neurons

Brain cells that carry electric signals to other parts of the brain

Synapse

Connection between two neurons

Selective Pruning

Reduces the number synapse connections in childhood by the eliminating unused or weak connections.

Neural Plasticity

The brain adapts to fit the environmental needs. Neuronal connections that are used are strengthened and maintained while neuronal connections not used disappear in a use it or lose it

Hormones

get released into blood stream and have implications for some mental health disorders

• Too much or too little hormone activity can disrupt normal functioning and contribute to mental health disorders.

• For example, chronic overproduction of stress hormones(epinephrine/adrenalin may be linked to anxiety or depression.

Neurotransmitters

chemicals that send messages through the brain. Too much or too little neurotransmitters have implications for certain mental health disorders like depression.

• Many psychotropic medications work by increasing or decreasing specific neurotransmitters to restore balance.

• Example: SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) increase serotonin levels to treat depression.