AP Psychology - Unit 8: Mental Disorders

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to various mental disorders as outlined in the AP Psychology Unit 8 lecture notes.

Mental disorders

Any condition defined by emotional and cognitive distress, abnormal behavior, impaired functioning, or any combination of these.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)

A book providing psychologists with a standard for making diagnoses to ensure equal treatment and care.

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Disorders that begin while an individual is still developing, or during childhood and adolescence.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A disorder impacting behavior and communication, often characterized by repetitive behaviors and sensitivity to sensory input.

Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)

A disorder marked by struggles with focus, impulsiveness, and difficulty staying organized.

Schizophrenia

A psychotic disorder defined by hallucinations, delusions, and impairments in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Characterized by excessive worry that is difficult to control.

Panic Disorder

Characterized by anxiety that escalates into a panic attack.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety experienced in social situations, often feelings of being judged by others.

Phobias

Intense fears that cause individuals to avoid certain objects or situations.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

A disorder marked by persistent intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Persistent intrusive thoughts concerning an imagined defect in one's appearance.

Hoarding Disorder

A compulsion to collect items and an inability to part with them.

Trichotillomania

The constant pulling of hair from one's body.

Major Depressive Disorder

Characterized by persistent sadness and symptoms such as poor appetite and fatigue.

Bipolar Disorder

A disorder where an individual alternates between manic and depressive episodes.

Manic Episodes

Periods of heightened emotions and abundance of energy, possibly with delusional behavior.

Depressive Episodes

Period characterized by poor appetite, reduced concentration, and feelings of pessimism.