AP Psych Unit 5 | Diverse Disorders & Their Impact

Depressive Disorders

characterized by a persistent sad, empty, or irritable mood accompanied by physical and cognitive changes

• significantly impairs a person’s ability to function in daily activities

• major depressive disorder

• persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)

• + several others (not covered in AP Pysch)

Major Depressive Disorder

pervasive and persistent low mood accompanied by low self-esteem and a loss of interest or pleasure in normally enjoyable activities

Persistent Depressive Disorder

chronic, depressed mood lasting for at least two years, wit symptoms that are less severe but longer-lasting than those of major depression, affecting daily functioning

Bipolar Disorders

characterized by alternating periods of mania and depression, with bipolar cycling involving shifts between these mood states that can vary in duration and intensity

• bipolar I disorder

• bipolar II disorder

• + several others (not covered in AP Pysch)

Bipolar I Disorder

characterized by at least one manic episode, which may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes

• causes significant impairment in daily functioning

• more severe than bipolar II due to the presence of full manic episodes

Bipolar II Disorder

characterized by at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, without ever having a full manic episode

• leads to significant distress or impairment

Hypomanic Episode

a period of persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and increased activity or energy lasting at least four days

• less severe than a manic episode and does not cause significant impairment in social or occupational functioning or require hospitalization

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

group of disorders that begin in the developmental period, characterized by symptoms that affect:

• behavior, learning, development

• focuses on whether behaviors are appropriate for the person’s age or maturity level

includes:

• intellectual disabilities

• autism spectrum disorder

• ADHD

• + other neurodevelopmental disorders

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development

• leads to difficulties in maintaining focus, controlling behavior, and staying organized

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and interaction, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities

• varies widely in severity and impact on daily functioning

Feeding and Eating Disorders

characterized by altered consumption or absorption of food

• leads to significant impairment in health or psychological functioning

includes:

• anorexia nervosa

• bulimia nervosa

• + others

Anorexia Nervosa

psychological disorder characterized by restricted food intake, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image

• leads to significant weight loss and health complications

Bulimia Nervosa

characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviors, such as vomiting or excessive exercise, to prevent weight gain

• causes significant physical and psychological distress