#67 Psych Lecture

Medicine and Neurotransmitter Levels

Certain medications may improve neurotransmitter levels, potentially alleviating symptoms of psychological disorders, but this isn't always a guaranteed cure. Psychological strategies for coping are equally important.

Definition of Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal psychology examines behaviors and disorders that disrupt daily life. A behavior is considered abnormal if it deviates statistically from typical behavior, interferes with adaptive functioning, is labeled so by society, or involves perceptual and cognitive dysfunction. Symptoms must significantly impact goals for a diagnosis of a disorder.

Identifying Abnormal Behaviors

  1. Statistical Deviation: Rare behaviors that fall outside of expected norms.

  2. Maladaptive Behavior: Impacts daily functioning and disrupts life.

  3. Sociocultural Labeling: Societal norms influence what's considered abnormal.

  4. Perceptual and Cognitive Dysfunction: Involves hallucinations or delusions.

Symptoms of Psychological Disorders

Key indicators include:

  • Hallucinations

  • Delusions

  • Severe mood disturbances
    Other signs of distress may be consistent anxiety, maladaptive responses to environments, irrational feelings, and unpredictable behaviors.

Psychological Models of Understanding Disorders

  1. Biological Model: Focuses on neurotransmitters and genetic predispositions.

  2. Psychodynamic Model: Emphasizes unconscious processes and early life trauma.

  3. Behavioral Model: Looks at environmental reinforcements affecting behavior.

  4. Cognitive Model: Investigates internal self-talk and cognitive distortions impacting behavior.

  5. Humanistic Model: Considers personal growth and the drive to reach one's potential.

The Diathesis-Stress Model

Suggests that genetic predispositions for disorders need environmental stressors to manifest. Managing stress can help prevent symptoms from developing.

Diagnostic Process and DSM-5

The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is used to classify and diagnose mental disorders. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive assessment across several axes, including perceptual disruptions and personality disorders, with subsequent axes evaluating physical conditions and psychosocial stressors.