Historical Background and Perspectives on Psychological Disorders

This set of flashcards covers the historical evolution of psychological disorder explanations and the three major contemporary perspectives (biological, socio-environmental, and cultural) on abnormality.

In ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia and Egypt, what were psychological disorders often attributed to?

Supernatural causes, such as possession by evil spirits or punishment by gods.

Which ancient Greek philosophers suggested that imbalances in bodily fluids (humors) or brain pathology caused mental illness?

Hippocrates and Galen.

During the Middle Ages, what specific beliefs influenced the perception of abnormal behavior through a religious lens?

Demonology and witchcraft beliefs.

What characterizes the shift in mental health care that occurred during the Renaissance?

A shift toward more humane approaches and the emergence of institutions dedicated to the care and treatment of the mentally ill.

Who were the two 18th and 19th-century pioneers who advocated for moral treatment and humane care in France and England?

Philippe Pinel (France) and William Tuke (England).

What is the primary purpose of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)?

To categorize and classify mental disorders based on observable symptoms and behavior.

Who spearheaded the rise of psychoanalysis in the early 20th century?

Sigmund Freud.

According to Sigmund Freud, what three elements shape behavior and mental health?

Unconscious conflicts, early childhood experiences, and defense mechanisms.

How did the development of psychotropic medications in the mid-20th century affect the structure of mental health care?

It revolutionized psychiatric treatment and led to the deinstitutionalization of mental health care.

What are three examples of therapeutic approaches integrated into clinical psychology during the latter half of the 20th century?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic therapies, and mindfulness-based interventions.

According to the biological perspective, what neurotransmitter levels are often abnormal in mood disorders like depression or anxiety?

Serotonin and dopamine.

Abnormalities in which part of the brain have been linked to impulse control disorders like ADHD?

The prefrontal cortex.

What specific medical interventions does the biological perspective emphasize for treatment?

Medication and neuro-stimulation techniques.

List four environmental stressors that the socio-environmental perspective identifies as contributors to psychological disorders.

Trauma, abuse, neglect, and poverty.

According to the socio-environmental perspective, what role do family dynamics and social support networks play?

They play a crucial role in shaping an individual's mental health; dysfunctional environments may contribute to disorder development.

What types of interventions does the social-environmental perspective underscore?

Psychosocial interventions such as therapy, counseling, and social support programs.

What is the definition of 'culture-bound syndromes'?

Psychological disorders that are specific to certain cultures or regions.

What are two specific examples of culture-bound syndromes mentioned in the text?

Taijin kyofusho in Japan and susto in Latin American cultures.

What does 'cultural competence' require from mental health professionals?

Sensitivity to cultural norms, language barriers, and cultural stigma surrounding mental illness.

What is the benefit of integrating biological, socio-environmental, and cultural perspectives?

It allows for a more comprehensive understanding of causes and promotes culturally sensitive and holistic approaches to mental health care.