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Defining/Categorizing Psychological Disorders: The distinction between normal and disordered emotions, thoughts, and behaviors can be ambiguous. Factors like cultural norms, personal distress, and concerns for others can complicate the criteria for defining disorders. For instance, not all maladaptive behaviors signify a psychological disorder, and behavior can cause discomfort to others without being classified as a disorder.

Causes of Psychological Disorders: The Diathesis-Stress Model indicates that a disorder may develop from an underlying vulnerability exacerbated by stressful events. Furthermore, the Biopsychosocial Approach integrates biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, highlighting the complex interplay of influences that can lead to psychological disorders.

Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety disorders are marked by excessive anxiety in the absence of danger, which can result in bodily symptoms. Various forms exist, such as Specific Phobia, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Agoraphobia, each characterized by different triggers and manifestations of anxiety.

Depressive/Bipolar Disorders: Major Depressive Disorder is characterized by prolonged sadness lasting over two weeks, while Bipolar Disorders are defined by mood fluctuations. Bipolar I involves manic episodes and Bipolar II alternates between depression and hypomania, showcasing the range of mood disorders.

Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is identified by psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations, classified into positive symptoms (excess functioning) and negative symptoms (deficits in functioning), helping to clarify the varied experiences of individuals with this disorder.

Personality Disorders: These are classified into three clusters: A (odd behaviors), B (dramatic/emotional behaviors), and C (anxious behaviors). Borderline Personality Disorder is a notable example, characterized by unstable moods and impulsive behaviors, presenting significant challenges to affected individuals.

Childhood Disorders: Neurodevelopmental disorders in children include conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD. ASD is primarily characterized by social deficits and restricted interests and is found to be more prevalent in males, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches in understanding and treating these disorders.