This Document Contains Chapters 13 to 14 Chapter 13: Stress! 13.1 Multiple Choice Questions 1. When events have a harmful effect, stress is labeled A. distress B. hypo stress C. eustress D. hyper stress Answer: A 2. Stress that has a beneficial effect on us is called A. hyperstores B. hypos tress C. distress D. eustress Answer: D 3. When events, even positive ones, pile up and stretch the limits of our adaptability, we experience A. hypo stress B. distress C. hyper stress D. eustress Answer: C 4. Monotonous jobs typically inspire A. eustress B. hyper stress C. hypo stress D. distress Answer: C 5. The stress of years in an unhappy marriage can be called A. hypo stress B. eustress C. acute stress D. chronic stress Answer: D 6. Some students feel distressed only in test situations. They might be said to suffer from A. acute stress B. hyper stress C. eustress D. hypo stress Answer: A 7. The life-events approach to conceptualizing stress A. considers the total impact of various life changes, such as beginning college or getting married B. takes into account how individuals perceive a given change C. includes the stress that comes from chronic conditions, such as a boring job D. includes the stress caused by everyday incidents, such as losing your keys Answer: A 8. Among traditional college students, the most commonly reported hassles are anxiety over A. relationships with significant others B. ties to family C. tests and grades D. adjusting to life in residence halls Answer: C 9. Which is a common reaction to terrorism? A. feeling angry B. feeling guilty C. feeling anxious D. all of the above Answer: D 10. Gary was in a crippling car accident on July 4th. As July 4th approaches, he feels a vague sense of anxiety. Gary is likely suffering from A. eustress and hyper stress B. an anniversary reaction C. unpredictability and uncontrollability D. transitory post-traumatic stress syndrome Answer: B 11. The general adaptation syndrome consists of all of the following EXCEPT A. the flight reaction B. the alarm reaction C. the stage of exhaustion D. the stage of resistance Answer: A 12. In his first week as an air-traffic controller, Harley is already complaining of headaches and fatigue. Harley's symptoms are characteristic of which stage of the general adaptation syndrome? A. alarm B. resistance C. exhaustion D. the intermediate stage Answer: A 13. What is the correct sequence in the general adaptation syndrome? A. alarm, exhaustion, resistance B. resistance, alarm, exhaustion C. exhaustion, resistance, alarm D. alarm, resistance, exhaustion Answer: D 14. The second stage of the general adaptation syndrome is A. alarm B. exhaustion C. resistance D. fight or flight Answer: C 15. Diane, a keyboard specialist, adapted to her stressful job with few complaints. Now, a year later, Diane has chronic headaches from the demands of her boss to meet deadlines and to type accurately. Such stress-related illnesses are likely to occur in which stage of the general adaptation syndrome? A. alarm B. resistance C. exhaustion D. the intermediate stage Answer: C 16. Cumulative changes that reflect the cost to the body for adapting to stressful demands is called A. homeostasis B. allostatic load C. repression D. acting out Answer: B 17. Which of the following is NOT a defense mechanism described in the text? A. repression B. projection C. anger D. displacement Answer: C 18. The unconscious blocking of a threatening impulse or idea from entering one's consciousness is A. denial B. projection C. repression D. none of these Answer: C 19. Attributing our unacceptable feelings to others is known as A. denial B. projection C. repression D. displacement Answer: B 20. Reacting to a low mark on a test by saying, "I don't believe it; I studied so hard" would be an example of which defense mechanism? A. denial B. projection C. displacement D. reaction formation Answer: A 21. When Mohammed’s girlfriend unexpectedly broke off their relationship, he said it was just as well because he no longer loved her. Yet, Mohammed did love her unconsciously. Mohammed’s response is an example of A. reaction formation B. denial C. sublimation D. repression Answer: A 22. When Margaret’s boss scolds her at work, she remains silent. Upon arriving home, she severely punishes her dog for lying on the sofa. This likely is an example of A. sublimation B. fixation C. displacement D. none of these Answer: C 23. The most frequent cause of post-traumatic stress disorder for Americans is A. earthquakes B. automobile accidents C. military combat D. assaults Answer: B 24. Which statement regarding posttraumatic stress disorder is true? A. Victims have trouble concentrating and sleeping at night. B. The symptoms of this disorder are experienced during a stressful or traumatic event. C. Victims experience a myriad of symptoms, but emotional numbness is not one of them. D. All of these are true. Answer: A 25. Which is a common symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder? A. emotional numbness B. difficulty sleeping C. angry outbursts D. all of these Answer: D 26. Women are more likely to cope with stress through A. medication B. social support C. working out D. sleeping Answer: B 27. Highly competitive, impatient people who judge themselves and others by rigorous standards are called A. antisocial personalities B. Type B personalities C. stress-carrying personalities D. Type A personalities Answer: D 28. Which term does NOT describe the Type A personality? A. competitive and sometimes hostile B. holds rigorous standards C. distressed and time urgent D. forgiving and relaxed Answer: D 29. Which is NOT one of the trademarks of psychological hardiness? A. challenge B. commitment C. threat D. control Answer: C 30. ________ after trauma is characterized by relatively mild and short-lived disruption and a stable trajectory of healthy functioning. A. Recovery B. Coping C. Hardiness D. Resilience Answer: D 31. Which was NOT defined in the text as an environmental response to stress? A. withdrawal B. displacement C. assertiveness D. compromise Answer: B 32. When there is a reasonable possibility of success, the preferred coping strategy is A. assertiveness B. withdrawal C. compromise D. denial Answer: A 33. While out to dinner with a co-worker, Tony’s steak was brought to him well-done, rather than the rare that he had ordered. He immediately called over the server and asked for it to be re-cooked. This coping strategy is known as A. compromise B. withdrawal C. denial D. assertiveness Answer: D 34. Mel has been arguing every day for months with his girlfriend, Sylvia. He realizes that this is a "no win" situation. She never gives in, and he is miserable with her. He decides to break up with her. Mel's coping strategy is known as A. negotiation B. compromise C. withdrawal D. assertiveness Answer: C 35. Withdrawal from a stressful situation A. is almost always an unhealthy, maladjusted response to stress B. is a temporary symptom-reducing response, so it rarely works C. is a viable problem-solving response under some conditions D. is the preferred response in most stressful situations Answer: C 36. A problem-solving response to stress that involves mutual concessions among all the participants is A. withdrawal B. negotiation C. substitution D. denial Answer: B 37. People in high-pressure jobs build up their ________ in order to handle a greater degree of stress. A. stress tolerance B. resilience C. hardiness D. eustress Answer: A 38. Numerous studies have shown that we manage stress more successfully and enjoy better physical and emotional health when we A. successfully meet deadlines B. keep to a stringent schedule C. have a well-paying job D. control distressful thoughts Answer: D 39. In emotion-focused coping, an individual tries to change A. the environment B. his or her perception of the stressor C. the emotional reaction to stress D. from expressing to suppressing the emotion Answer: C 40. In problem-focused coping, an individual tries to change A. the environment B. his or her perception of the stressor C. the emotional reaction to stress D. from expressing to suppressing the emotion Answer: A 13.2 True/False Questions 1. More than three out of every five doctor’s office visits are for stress-related problems. Answer: True 2. Eustress is the most harmful type of stress. Answer: False 3. Hyper stress has a stimulating effect that makes for personal growth. Answer: False 4. While daily hassles are annoying, they are not a major contributor to one’s stress level. Answer: False 5. Acculturative stress affects only first-generation immigrants shortly after arriving in their new country. Answer: False 6. Currently, around 20 percent of students work full-time while attending college. Answer: False 7. Stressed students are less pleased with their grade-point average. Answer: True 8. The fight-or-flight response starts in the brain. Answer: True 9. Chronic stress makes us more susceptible to viruses. Answer: True 10. The defense mechanism of rationalization involves justifying our unacceptable behavior through "good" reasons. Answer: True 11. Even mild stress is problematic and disruptive to our lives. Answer: False 12. Type A people are most apt to develop stress-related illnesses like ulcers and heart disease. Answer: True 13. Resilience is a rare response to stress. Answer: False 14. Assertiveness is rarely a helpful way of managing stress. Answer: False 15. Withdrawal is the most preferred way of managing stress. Answer: False 16. Negotiation has become a widely used strategy in many stressful situations because it involves mutual accommodation among all participants. Answer: True 17. One’s level of stress tolerance is static and cannot be increased. Answer: False 18. To control stress, it is best to find time to relax. Exercise is not as helpful. Answer: False 19. One way to manage distressing thoughts is to seek social support. Answer: True 20. Having too little stress is never a bad thing. Answer: False 13.3 Short Answer Questions 1. Identify the four types of stress identified by Selye. Answer: Four Types of Stress Identified by Selye: • Eustress: Positive stress that is motivating and enhances performance. • Distress: Negative stress that can be overwhelming and harmful. • Hyper stress: Excessive stress that occurs when an individual is pushed beyond their limits. • Hypo stress: Insufficient stress leading to boredom and lack of motivation. 2. What are some effects of catastrophic events? Answer: Effects of Catastrophic Events: • Immediate Effects: Shock, confusion, and disorientation. • Short-term Effects: Acute stress reactions, anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns. • Long-term Effects: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, chronic anxiety, and other mental health issues. Physical health can also be impacted, with increased risk of heart disease and other stress-related conditions. 3. List and describe the stages in the general adaptation syndrome. Answer: Stages in the General Adaptation Syndrome: • Alarm Stage: The body’s immediate reaction to a stressor, activating the "fight or flight" response. Hormones like adrenaline and cortisol are released. • Resistance Stage: The body attempts to adapt to the stressor. While the initial shock subsides, the body remains on high alert, with continued production of stress hormones. • Exhaustion Stage: If the stress continues for a prolonged period without adequate recovery, the body’s resources become depleted, leading to decreased stress tolerance, burnout, and increased risk of illness and health issues. 4. Identify and define three defense mechanisms. Answer: Three Defense Mechanisms: • Repression: Unconsciously blocking out painful or unacceptable thoughts and feelings from awareness. • Denial: Refusing to accept reality or facts, thereby blocking external events from awareness. • Projection: Attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or motives to another person. 5. What is posttraumatic stress disorder? What causes it? Answer: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): • Definition: A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, severe anxiety, uncontrollable thoughts about the event, and avoidance of reminders of the trauma. • Causes: PTSD can be caused by a variety of traumatic events, including natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist acts, war/combat, rape, or other violent personal assaults. 6. Describe the three types of compromise. Answer: Three Types of Compromise: • Negotiation: Both parties involved in a conflict or disagreement make concessions to reach a mutually acceptable solution. • Arbitration: A neutral third party listens to both sides and makes a binding decision to resolve the conflict. • Mediation: A neutral third party facilitates communication between the conflicting parties to help them reach a voluntary, non-binding resolution. 7. According to the text, how can you better control distressing thoughts? Answer: Controlling Distressing Thoughts: • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation to stay present and calm. • Cognitive Behavioral Techniques: Identifying and challenging irrational or negative thoughts, and replacing them with more balanced and constructive thoughts. • Positive Self-Talk and Affirmations: Using positive affirmations and encouraging self-talk to counteract negative thoughts. • Distraction and Refocusing: Engaging in activities that absorb attention and divert focus away from distressing thoughts. 8. How can stress be a valuable means of personal growth? Answer: Stress as a Valuable Means of Personal Growth: • Building Resilience: Facing and overcoming stress can enhance resilience, making it easier to handle future challenges. • Enhancing Skills and Competencies: Stressful situations often require problem-solving, adaptability, and creativity, leading to the development of new skills and competencies. • Fostering Personal Insight: Stress can prompt self-reflection and lead to a better understanding of one's strengths, weaknesses, and values. • Encouraging Positive Change: Experiencing stress can motivate individuals to make positive changes in their lives, such as improving time management, seeking social support, or adopting healthier lifestyle habits. 13.4 Essay Questions 1. What are four basic types of stress? Provide an example of each. Answer: The four basic types of stress are: 1. Eustress: This type of stress is considered positive and motivating. It can arise from situations like getting a promotion at work, planning a wedding, or preparing for a challenging but rewarding task. Eustress typically leads to feelings of excitement and fulfillment rather than anxiety. 2. Distress: Distress is the most commonly recognized type of stress, characterized by negative feelings and emotions. Examples include losing a job, going through a divorce, or dealing with financial problems. Distress can lead to feelings of anxiety, sadness, or anger. 3. Acute Stress: Acute stress is short-term and is often caused by specific events or demands in the immediate present. For instance, public speaking, taking an exam, or narrowly avoiding an accident can trigger acute stress. It usually resolves once the situation is over. 4. Chronic Stress: Chronic stress is long-term and persists over an extended period. It can result from ongoing financial difficulties, relationship problems, or work-related stress. Chronic stress can have serious health consequences if not managed properly. These categories help differentiate the various ways stress can manifest and affect individuals depending on the nature and duration of the stressors involved. 2. Discuss the effects of poverty and discrimination on stress. Answer: The effects of poverty and discrimination on stress are profound and multifaceted, impacting individuals, families, and entire communities in significant ways. Understanding these effects is crucial for addressing social inequalities and promoting well-being. Here are some key points to consider: Effects of Poverty on Stress: 1. Financial Stress: Poverty inherently involves financial instability and the constant struggle to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare. The chronic worry over money can lead to persistent stress and anxiety. 2. Health Impact: Limited access to healthcare and nutritious food in impoverished conditions can exacerbate health problems, leading to both physical and mental health stressors. 3. Educational Opportunities: Poverty often limits access to quality education and opportunities for skill development, perpetuating cycles of poverty across generations. The stress of trying to overcome educational barriers can be immense. 4. Social Support: Poverty may lead to social isolation or reliance on limited social networks, which can increase feelings of loneliness and emotional stress. 5. Housing Conditions: Living in substandard housing or unsafe neighborhoods due to poverty can contribute to feelings of insecurity and constant vigilance, adding to stress levels. Effects of Discrimination on Stress: 1. Psychological Stress: Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or other factors can lead to chronic stress as individuals navigate daily interactions and societal attitudes that devalue or marginalize them. 2. Physical Health Impact: Discrimination is linked to increased risk of stress-related health problems such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. 3. Workplace and Economic Impact: Discrimination in hiring, promotions, or pay can create economic stress and limit career opportunities, affecting financial stability and overall well-being. 4. Social and Emotional Consequences: Experiencing discrimination can lead to feelings of anger, frustration, and low self-esteem, impacting relationships and personal identity. 5. Cumulative Effects: Over time, chronic exposure to discrimination can wear down resilience and coping mechanisms, increasing vulnerability to stress-related illnesses. Intersection of Poverty and Discrimination: 1. Compound Stressors: Individuals who experience both poverty and discrimination face compounded stressors that intersect and amplify each other’s effects, creating complex challenges for mental and physical health. 2. Systemic Inequities: Poverty and discrimination are often interconnected within systemic structures of inequality and injustice, perpetuating cycles of stress and marginalization. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive approaches that include policy changes, community support systems, education, and advocacy for social justice. By recognizing and addressing the impact of poverty and discrimination on stress, society can work towards creating more equitable and supportive environments for all individuals. 3. What are the stages of the general adaptation syndrome? Using a specific example, such as a stressful job, delineate what happens at each stage. Evaluate this concept against one other conceptualization of stress, such as the notion of daily hassles. Answer: The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), proposed by Hans Selye, describes the body's response to stress as progressing through three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. Let's explore each stage in the context of a stressful job, and then compare GAS with the concept of daily hassles. General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS): 1. Alarm Stage: • Example: Starting a new job with high demands and responsibilities. • Response: Initially, upon starting the job, the body perceives the new stressor (job demands) as a threat. The sympathetic nervous system activates, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This stage can involve increased heart rate, heightened senses, and a temporary boost in energy to cope with the new demands. 2. Resistance Stage: • Example: After a few weeks on the job, adapting to the workload and responsibilities. • Response: If the stress persists, the body enters the resistance stage. Here, physiological responses stabilize to cope with ongoing stress. Hormone levels normalize, and the body tries to maintain balance despite the ongoing demands of the job. However, prolonged activation of stress responses can start to affect health, sleep, and overall well-being. 3. Exhaustion Stage: • Example: Months later, feeling burnt out and experiencing physical and mental fatigue. • Response: If the stress continues without adequate relief or adaptation, the body enters the exhaustion stage. Resources become depleted, and the body's ability to cope diminishes. This stage is characterized by increased susceptibility to illness, chronic fatigue, and potentially serious health problems if stress persists unabated. Comparison with Daily Hassles: Daily hassles theory suggests that minor stressors encountered in everyday life can accumulate and have a significant impact on well-being, sometimes more so than major life events. Let's evaluate this concept against the stages of GAS: • Nature of Stressors: While GAS focuses on the body's physiological response to significant stressors (like a demanding job), daily hassles theory emphasizes the cumulative impact of minor stressors (like traffic, deadlines, conflicts at work) on daily life. • Response Patterns: GAS describes a sequential physiological response (alarm, resistance, exhaustion) to stress over time. In contrast, daily hassles theory suggests that the accumulation of daily minor stressors can lead to persistent activation of stress responses without clear stages. • Long-term Impact: Both conceptualizations acknowledge the potential for long-term health impacts from stress. GAS highlights the risk of exhaustion and health problems due to prolonged stress, whereas daily hassles theory emphasizes the chronic effects of ongoing minor stressors on health and well-being. • Application: GAS is often used to understand the physiological responses to acute and chronic stressors in clinical and research settings. Daily hassles theory is more applicable to understanding the everyday stressors that individuals experience in their daily lives and their cumulative impact. Conclusion: The General Adaptation Syndrome provides a framework for understanding the physiological responses to stress over time, starting from initial alarm reactions to potential long-term exhaustion. It contrasts with daily hassles theory, which focuses on the cumulative impact of minor stressors in daily life. Both conceptualizations contribute valuable insights into how stress affects individuals differently depending on the nature, duration, and accumulation of stressors they face. Understanding these frameworks helps in developing effective strategies for stress management and promoting overall well-being in various contexts. 4. What are defense mechanisms? What are the advantages and disadvantages of using them to cope with stress? Provide examples of three of them. Answer: Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies that individuals unconsciously use to protect themselves from anxiety and preserve their self-esteem. They operate at various levels of awareness and can be adaptive or maladaptive depending on the context. Here are examples of three defense mechanisms along with their advantages and disadvantages: 1. Denial: • Definition: Refusing to acknowledge or accept the reality of a stressful situation. • Advantages: Provides immediate relief from anxiety and can buy time for individuals to gradually come to terms with the situation. • Disadvantages: If prolonged, denial can prevent effective problem-solving and lead to avoidance of necessary actions or decisions. For example, someone diagnosed with a serious illness may initially deny the diagnosis, which delays seeking treatment and addressing the issue. 2. Projection: • Definition: Attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or motives to others. • Advantages: Reduces anxiety by externalizing inner conflicts, thereby temporarily preserving self-esteem and avoiding introspection. • Disadvantages: May strain relationships and hinder personal growth if individuals consistently blame others for their own shortcomings or negative emotions. For instance, someone who is jealous of a colleague's success might accuse the colleague of being envious instead. 3. Rationalization: • Definition: Creating logical explanations or justifications to make unacceptable behaviors, thoughts, or feelings seem more acceptable. • Advantages: Helps individuals maintain a positive self-image and reduce guilt or anxiety about their actions. • Disadvantages: Can lead to self-deception and prevent genuine self-awareness and growth. For example, a student who fails an exam might rationalize it by blaming the teacher's poor teaching rather than acknowledging their own lack of preparation. 5. What are five strategies for reducing stress? Which one would you personally select to use and why? Answer: There are various strategies for reducing stress, each with its own benefits and applicability depending on individual preferences and circumstances. Here are five commonly recommended strategies: 1. Exercise: Physical activity such as jogging, yoga, or swimming can help reduce stress by releasing endorphins and promoting relaxation. 2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices that focus on being present in the moment, such as mindfulness meditation, can reduce stress by calming the mind and improving emotional regulation. 3. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine can support overall well-being and reduce stress levels. 4. Social Support: Talking to friends, family, or a therapist can provide emotional support and perspective, helping to alleviate stress. 5. Time Management: Organizing tasks and prioritizing responsibilities can reduce feelings of overwhelm and increase efficiency in managing stress. Personal Selection and Reasoning: If I were to select one strategy to use personally, I would choose mindfulness and meditation. This is because mindfulness practices not only help in reducing immediate stress by promoting relaxation and clarity of mind but also offer long-term benefits such as improved emotional resilience and better stress management skills. Mindfulness allows me to cultivate awareness of my thoughts and reactions, which can help in recognizing and addressing stressors before they escalate. Moreover, regular practice of meditation has been shown to positively impact overall mental health and well-being, making it a comprehensive approach to stress reduction that aligns with my preference for holistic and sustainable self-care practices. 6. Explain the major difference between emotion-focused and problem-focused coping responses to stress. Give an example of each. Answer: Emotion-focused coping involves managing emotions that arise from a stressful situation without necessarily changing the situation itself. It aims to regulate emotional distress rather than directly address the root cause of stress. • Example: After receiving a rejection letter from a job application, someone might use emotion-focused coping by talking to a friend about their feelings of disappointment, engaging in relaxation techniques like deep breathing or listening to music to calm themselves, or distracting themselves with hobbies to temporarily shift their focus away from the rejection. Advantages: • Provides immediate relief from emotional distress. • Helps in managing overwhelming emotions. • Can enhance resilience by allowing time for emotional processing. Disadvantages: • Does not address the underlying problem causing stress. • May lead to avoidance of necessary actions or decisions. • Effectiveness depends on the situation and individual coping style. Problem-focused coping, on the other hand, involves taking direct action to address the stressful situation or its cause. It aims to change the situation itself or one's response to it, thereby reducing or eliminating the source of stress. • Example: In response to a heavy workload, someone might use problem-focused coping by breaking tasks into smaller manageable parts, prioritizing deadlines, or delegating tasks to colleagues to reduce the workload. Advantages: • Addresses the root cause of stress. • Provides a sense of control and empowerment. • Can lead to long-term resolution of stressors. Disadvantages: • Not always possible or practical for every stressful situation. • Requires problem-solving skills and resources. • Effectiveness depends on the feasibility of changing the situation. 7. Provide a definition for and an example of the following terms: eustress, defense mechanism, psychological hardiness, assertiveness, and stress-related illness. Answer: 1. Eustress: • Definition: Positive stress that motivates and energizes an individual, improving performance. • Example: Starting a new job that challenges and excites you, leading to increased focus and productivity. 2. Defense Mechanism: • Definition: Unconscious psychological strategies used to protect oneself from anxiety and maintain self-esteem. • Example: A person who experienced a traumatic event might use repression to push painful memories out of awareness. 3. Psychological Hardiness: • Definition: Personality trait characterized by a sense of control over events, commitment to challenges, and viewing change as a normal part of life. • Example: A leader in a constantly changing industry who remains optimistic, committed to their goals, and adaptable to new challenges. 4. Assertiveness: • Definition: Assertiveness involves expressing one's needs, desires, opinions, and feelings directly and respectfully, while respecting the rights of others. • Example: Clearly stating your boundaries to a colleague who consistently interrupts you during meetings. 5. Stress-Related Illness: • Definition: Physical or mental health conditions exacerbated or caused by prolonged or excessive stress. • Example: Chronic conditions like hypertension, insomnia, or anxiety disorders that develop or worsen due to ongoing stress at work or home. 8. You can alter yourself or alter your environment to help cope better with stress. Provide three detailed examples of each. Answer: Altering Self: 1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Engaging in regular mindfulness practices or meditation to cultivate awareness, reduce stress reactivity, and promote relaxation. 2. Cognitive Restructuring: Changing negative thought patterns and cognitive distortions through therapy or self-help techniques to improve resilience and coping skills. 3. Physical Exercise: Incorporating regular physical activity to release endorphins, reduce tension, and improve overall mood and health. Altering Environment: 1. Time Management: Implementing effective time management strategies to prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and reduce feelings of overwhelm. 2. Social Support: Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups to share feelings, gain perspective, and receive practical assistance. 3. Workplace Changes: Negotiating workload adjustments, improving communication with colleagues, or creating a conducive work environment to reduce job-related stressors. Each approach—altering oneself or altering the environment—offers different tools and strategies for managing stress effectively. The choice of approach often depends on the nature of stressors, personal preferences, and available resources, aiming to promote resilience, well-being, and adaptive coping mechanisms. Chapter 14: Understanding Mental Disorders 14.1 Multiple Choice Questions 1. Which is NOT used when defining psychological disorders? A. personal distress B. maladaptive behavior C. increased freedom or personal control D. increased risk of suffering disability, pain, or death Answer: C 2. A man who removes all of his clothes on a busy street in downtown New York City is judged to be acting abnormally. This illustrates which standard of normality? A. personal distress B. violation of social norms C. loss of personal control D. impaired ability to work Answer: B 3. According to the text, stigmas about mental disorders A. are really a legal matter for lawyers and politicians B. are related primarily to disrespect C. seem to concern psychologists but not psychiatrists D. can be defined as the number of new cases per year Answer: B 4. In order to avoid stigmatizing people with mental disorders, A. portray successful persons with disabilities as superhuman B. use generic terms such as mentally ill C. emphasize abilities, not limitations D. use terms like crazy or slow-functioning Answer: C 5. Sets of symptoms more common in some societies are called A. culture-Bound syndromes B. culture-clash syndromes C. secular syndromes D. societal syndromes Answer: A 6. Throughout the DSM, the emphasis is on A. distinguishing between neuroses and psychoses B. identifying the causes of the various disorders C. classifying the behavior patterns and not people D. labeling people as either normal or abnormal Answer: C 7. Women are more likely to suffer from ________, while men are more likely to suffer from ________. A. alcohol abuse; depression B. anxiety; phobia C. depression; drug abuse D. phobias; depression Answer: C 8. A major gender difference in regard to psychological disorders is that A. women are more likely to suffer from phobias B. men are twice as likely as women to seek therapy C. women are more likely to abuse alcohol D. men are much more likely to suffer from depression Answer: A 9. People suffering from generalized anxiety disorder almost always exhibit A. avoidance behavior and cleaning rituals B. difficulty communicating with others C. a persistent sense of free-floating anxiety D. delusions and hallucinations Answer: C 10. Panic attacks A. usually last 30 minutes to one hour B. are produced by a specific instigator C. are predictable D. often create additional anxiety Answer: D 11. A woman experiences severe anxiety whenever she is asked to speak in public. She is probably suffering from A. simple phobia B. agoraphobia C. claustrophobia D. social phobia Answer: D 12. An example of an anxiety disorder is A. borderline personality B. obsessive-compulsive disorder C. schizophrenia D. depression Answer: B 13. An excessive fear of being alone is called A. monophobia B. mysophobia C. autophobia D. sophophobia Answer: A 14. A woman worries so much about the specks of dirt left on the vegetables purchased in the local grocery store that she washes each vegetable 10 or 15 times before cooking it. She is probably suffering from A. a general anxiety disorder B. a phobic disorder C. an obsessive-compulsive disorder D. a personality disorder Answer: C 15. A(n) __________ is someone with OCD who wants his or her possessions in their rightful place and arranged in a certain way. A. hoarder B. pure obsessive C. repeater D. orderer Answer: D 16. Which is NOT a category of compulsions? A. repeater B. orderer C. hoarder D. slacker Answer: D 17. Flashbacks are associated with what disorder? A. OCD B. phobia C. PTSD D. none of these Answer: C 18. Which is NOT a plausible reason why women are more prone to depression than men? A. They aren’t—they are just more likely to seek professional help. B. Women suffer more work overload than men. C. Women are more inclined to dwell on their problems. D. The region of the brain affected by depression is eight times larger in women than in men. Answer: A 19. People who become depressed in the winter months because of seasonal affective disorder are thought to suffer from an imbalance of the hormone called A. dopamine B. melatonin C. adrenaline D. thyroxin Answer: B 20. People who have seasonal affective disorder A. are usually seriously mentally ill and depressive B. may suffer depression due to lack of light C. often live in the Southwest, not the Northeast D. all of these are true Answer: B 21. Bipolar disorder includes A. phobia with at least one personality disorder B. mania and depression in the same individual C. two different personality disorders at the same time D. schizophrenia and one other form of psychosis Answer: B 22. The first sign of bipolar disorder is A. anxiety B. depression C. mania D. a suicide attempt Answer: C 23. In contrast to major depression, bipolar disorder A. usually occurs before age 30 B. is more prevalent among women than men C. is more common in the general population D. is more prevalent among married people Answer: A 24. Which disorder is equally prevalent among men and women, is likely to run in families, and usually appears before age 30? A. depression B. hoarding C. bipolar disorder D. schizophrenia Answer: C 25. Men are more successful at suicide than women because A. they are more depressed B. they are lonely C. they are less anxious D. they use more violent methods Answer: D 26. Severely depressed people are more likely to take their lives A. as their situations improve B. only if someone asks directly if they are suicidal C. when they are most depressed D. when they have high levels of serotonin Answer: A 27. Suicide victims have abnormally low A. body fat B. blood sugar C. melatonin D. seratonin Answer: D 28. Which is not recommended when someone you know is suicidal? A. Don’t talk to the person unless they are eager and open to talking. B. Ask the person if they have a specific plan for committing suicide. C. Get professional help. D. Follow-up to make sure they are going to counseling. Answer: A 29. Jennifer, who has an intense fear of getting fat, eats so little that her weight has dropped from 140 pounds to 95 pounds in less than a year. She is most likely suffering from A. anorexia nervosa B. narcissism C. bulimia nervosa D. compulsive overeating Answer: A 30. Episodes of binging and purging are characteristic of A. social anxiety disorder B. anorexia nervosa C. narcissistic personalities D. bulimia nervosa Answer: D 31. Which of the following statements is true of eating disorders? A. Most overweight people are binge eaters. B. Eating disorders are more common among African-Americans than Whites. C. Up to 20 percent of people who have an eating disorder die from it. D. Bulimics are typically dangerously thin. Answer: C 32. Jorge has a grandiose sense of self-importance and exaggerates his accomplishments. However, he is hypersensitive to people's criticism. Jorge is most likely suffering from A. bipolar disorder B. multiple personality disorder C. narcissistic personality disorder D. antisocial personality disorder Answer: C 33. People with antisocial personality disorder exhibit A. compulsive cleaning rituals B. depression and suicidal behavior C. several alternating personalities D. maladaptive thought and behavior Answer: D 34. Someone who suffers from _______ personality disorder may show impulsive behaviors and unstable social relationships. A. avoidant B. schizoid C. borderline D. antisocial Answer: C 35. Robert is a loner who hears imaginary voices and claims people are plotting against him. Robert is most likely suffering from A. schizophrenia B. bipolar disorder C. an anxiety disorder D. antisocial personality disorder Answer: A 36. Which are obvious psychotic symptoms? A. overeating and anxiety B. delusions and hallucinations C. fear of being alone and fear of high places D. none of these Answer: B 37. One symptom of ______ is distorted beliefs, known as ______. A. anxiety disorder; hypertension B. schizophrenia; delusions C. OCD; hallucinations D. bipolar disorder; compulsions Answer: B 38. Which one of the following factors generally indicates a favorable prognosis for recovery from schizophrenia? A. sudden onset of symptoms B. no symptoms of anxiety or depression C. early age of onset of symptoms D. no specific triggering event Answer: A 39. The diathesis-stress hypothesis views schizophrenia as A. caused by childhood traumas and maltreatment B. caused by disturbed family relationships, especially with fathers C. a result of the interaction of genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors D. a result of neurological factors centered in the spine rather than brain Answer: C 40. During college, three-quarters of all students experience some symptoms of A. antisocial personality B. agoraphobia C. schizophrenia D. depression Answer: D 14.2 True/False Questions 1. The word insane is not a psychological term. Answer: True 2. In order to avoid stigmatization, it is best to use generic labels such as mentally ill. Answer: False 3. Symptoms of mental illness are universal across cultures. Answer: False 4. Men and women are equally likely to suffer from a psychological disorder. Answer: True 5. Agoraphobia is the most common type of phobia. Answer: False 6. Agoraphobia typically produces a severe phobic reaction and the one for which people most often seek treatment. Answer: True 7. There are three basic categories of compulsions described in the text. Answer: True 8. People can make themselves depressed by negative thinking or pessimistic cognitive styles. Answer: True 9. Men are more likely to develop depression than women. Answer: False 10. People who are depressed in the winter months because of seasonal affective disorder may have an imbalance of melatonin. Answer: True 11. Married people are more susceptible to depression. Answer: False 12. Suicide is more common than homicide. Answer: True 13. Women are more likely than men to commit suicide. Answer: False 14. As many as one out of six single-car accidents might actually be suicide. Answer: True 15. Less than 10 percent of people who have an eating disorder die from it. Answer: False 16. About one in four college-age women are involved in bulimic behavior. Answer: True 17. A common symptom of schizophrenia is distorted perception. Answer: True 18. The incidence of schizophrenia varies significantly from country to country. Answer: False 19. Schizophrenia ranks among the top 10 causes of disability in developed countries worldwide. Answer: True 20. Only about two percent of all college students experience some symptoms of depression during college. Answer: False 14.3 Short Answer Questions 1. What is the DSM? Answer: The DSM, or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, is a handbook published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that provides standardized criteria and classifications for mental disorders. It is used by clinicians and researchers worldwide to diagnose and classify mental health conditions based on symptoms, behaviors, and other clinical observations. The DSM helps ensure consistency in diagnosis and treatment planning across different healthcare settings. 2. Describe generalized anxiety disorder. Answer: Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry and anxiety about multiple aspects of life, such as work, health, finances, or relationships. The anxiety is often disproportionate to the actual likelihood or impact of the feared event or situation. Key features of GAD include: 3. Describe the three major types of phobias. Answer: Three Major Types of Phobias: 1. Specific Phobias: Intense fear and avoidance of specific objects or situations, like heights (acrophobia), animals (zoophobia), or flying (aviophobia). 2. Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations, leading to avoidance of social interactions and performance settings. 3. Agoraphobia: Fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, such as crowded places, open spaces, or public transportation. 4. Describe obsessive-compulsive disorder. Answer: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). Examples include excessive cleaning due to fear of contamination (obsession) and repetitive checking to prevent harm (compulsion). 5. Why are women more likely than men to be depressed? Answer: Biological Factors: Hormonal changes (e.g., during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause) can contribute to increased vulnerability. Psychosocial Factors: Women may face higher rates of stressors such as caregiving roles, societal pressures, and interpersonal relationships. 6. Describe the causes and treatment of seasonal affective disorder. Answer: • Causes: SAD is caused by changes in light exposure during specific seasons, leading to disruptions in circadian rhythms and serotonin levels. • Treatment: Treatment includes light therapy (exposure to bright artificial light), psychotherapy, antidepressant medications, and lifestyle changes like increasing outdoor exposure. 7. List the warning signs of suicide. Answer: • Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself. • Researching ways to die or acquiring means. • Withdrawing from friends, giving away possessions, or expressing hopelessness. 8. Differentiate anorexia nervosa from bulimia. Answer: • Anorexia Nervosa: Involves severe restriction of food intake, fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, and potentially severe weight loss. • Bulimia: Involves binge-eating episodes followed by purging behaviors (vomiting, excessive exercise, laxative use), often accompanied by feelings of guilt or shame. 9. Describe the antisocial personality. Answer: • Description: Characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others, deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, aggression, and lack of remorse. 10. What is the diathesis-stress hypothesis of schizophrenia? Answer: • Description: Proposes that schizophrenia develops when a genetic vulnerability (diathesis) is triggered by environmental stressors (such as trauma, stress, or drug use), leading to the onset of symptoms. 14.4 Essay Questions 1. Discuss how mental health professionals use the DSM-IV in classifying and describing various psychological disorders. Answer: Mental health professionals use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), as a standard classification system for diagnosing and describing psychological disorders. The DSM-IV, published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), provides comprehensive criteria for mental health conditions, facilitating a common language and framework for clinicians, researchers, and insurance companies. Here’s how the DSM-IV is utilized in practice: 1. Diagnostic Criteria: Each disorder in the DSM-IV includes a set of diagnostic criteria that outline specific symptoms and the duration required for a diagnosis. For instance, Major Depressive Disorder requires a certain number of symptoms to be present for at least two weeks. This ensures consistency in diagnosing disorders across different practitioners and settings. 2. Descriptive Information: The DSM-IV provides detailed descriptions of each disorder, including characteristic symptoms, associated features, and potential differential diagnoses. This helps clinicians differentiate between similar disorders and understand the nuances of each condition. 3. Categorization: Disorders are categorized into broad groups based on shared features. For example, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders each have distinct sections. This organization aids in identifying and treating co-occurring conditions and understanding their relationships. 4. Assessment Tools: The DSM-IV includes various assessment tools and scales that help clinicians measure the severity of symptoms and track changes over time. These tools support evidence-based treatment planning and monitoring. 5. Communication and Research: The DSM-IV serves as a critical tool for communication among mental health professionals, researchers, and educators. It standardizes terminology and diagnostic criteria, enabling clear and consistent discussion of mental health conditions. It also guides research by providing uniform criteria for identifying study populations and interpreting findings. 6. Insurance and Legal Purposes: The DSM-IV is often used for insurance billing and reimbursement. Accurate diagnosis using DSM-IV criteria is necessary for justifying the need for treatment and securing coverage. It also has implications in legal contexts, such as determining competency and responsibility. While the DSM-IV has been updated to the DSM-5, its use during its time was integral in advancing the field of mental health by providing a structured approach to diagnosis and treatment. Despite some criticism regarding its categorical approach and potential for over-diagnosis, it remains a foundational tool in mental health practice. 2. Discuss anxiety disorders: what they are, who suffers from them, how common they are, etc. Answer: Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, and related behavioral disturbances. These disorders are among the most common mental health issues and can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. Here’s an in-depth look at anxiety disorders: 1. What They Are: Anxiety disorders encompass various conditions where anxiety is the predominant feature. These include: • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about multiple aspects of life. • Panic Disorder: Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and persistent concern about having more attacks. • Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear of social situations where one might be judged or embarrassed. • Specific Phobias: Intense fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights or animals. • Agoraphobia: Fear of situations where escape might be difficult, leading to avoidance of open spaces, crowds, or public transportation. • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Anxiety following exposure to a traumatic event, featuring re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal symptoms. 2. Who Suffers from Them: Anxiety disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, certain factors may increase the risk, such as: • Genetics: Family history of anxiety disorders. • Personality: Certain personality traits, such as being more prone to stress. • Environmental Factors: Stressful or traumatic life events, such as abuse or loss. • Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses, substance abuse, or other mental health disorders. 3. Discuss the symptoms and causes of major depression. Answer: Major Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) is a serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in most activities. It affects how a person thinks, feels, and handles daily activities. Here are the symptoms and causes of major depression: Symptoms: 1. Emotional Symptoms: • Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood. • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism. • Irritability or frustration, even over small matters. • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness. 2. Physical Symptoms: • Fatigue or decreased energy. • Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or oversleeping. • Changes in appetite or weight (significant weight loss or gain). • Physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain without a clear physical cause. 3. Behavioral Symptoms: • Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as hobbies, social activities, or sex. • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things. • Restlessness or slowed movements and speech. • Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts. Causes: 1. Biological Factors: • Genetics: Family history of depression can increase the risk. • Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, play a crucial role. • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or thyroid problems, can trigger depression. 2. Psychological Factors: • Personality: Individuals with certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or being overly dependent, self-critical, or pessimistic, are more likely to experience depression. • Trauma: Past physical, sexual, or emotional abuse can increase the vulnerability to depression. 3. Environmental Factors: • Life Events: Significant life changes, such as the loss of a loved one, financial problems, or a major life change, can trigger depression. • Social Isolation: Lack of social support or prolonged social isolation can contribute to depressive symptoms. • Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse can exacerbate or lead to depression. 4. Explain the differences between major depression and bipolar disorder. Answer: While both major depression and bipolar disorder involve periods of depression, they are distinct conditions with different symptoms and patterns. Here are the key differences: Major Depression (Major Depressive Disorder): 1. Symptoms: • Persistent depressive episodes with symptoms such as sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep, and thoughts of death or suicide. • There are no manic or hypomanic episodes in major depression. 2. Duration: • Depressive episodes can last for weeks, months, or even years if untreated. 3. Mood State: • Individuals experience only depressive episodes and no periods of elevated or irritable mood. Bipolar Disorder (formerly known as manic-depressive illness): 1. Symptoms: • Manic Episodes: Periods of abnormally elevated mood, increased energy, hyperactivity, decreased need for sleep, grandiosity, rapid speech, impulsive behaviors, and sometimes psychosis. • Hypomanic Episodes: Milder forms of mania with elevated mood and increased activity, but not severe enough to cause significant impairment. • Depressive Episodes: Similar to those in major depression, with intense sadness, loss of interest, and other depressive symptoms. 2. Types: • Bipolar I Disorder: Characterized by at least one manic episode, often with depressive episodes. • Bipolar II Disorder: Characterized by at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, without full-blown manic episodes. 3. Mood State: • Individuals experience both manic/hypomanic and depressive episodes, with mood swings between high (mania/hypomania) and low (depression) states. 4. Duration: • Mood swings in bipolar disorder can vary in duration and frequency, with periods of normal mood (euthymia) between episodes. Summary: • Major Depression: Characterized by persistent depressive episodes without manic or hypomanic episodes. • Bipolar Disorder: Involves mood swings between manic/hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment, as each condition requires different therapeutic approaches. Major depression often responds well to antidepressants and psychotherapy, while bipolar disorder may require mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy to manage both manic and depressive phases. 5. Describe the symptoms and causes of bipolar disorder. Answer: Bipolar Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Here are the symptoms and causes of bipolar disorder: Symptoms: 1. Manic Episodes: • Elevated Mood: An abnormally upbeat, jumpy, or wired mood. • Increased Activity: Excessive energy, activity, or agitation. • Grandiosity: Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity. • Reduced Sleep Need: Decreased need for sleep without feeling tired. • Talkativeness: Unusual talkativeness, rapid speech, or feeling pressured to keep talking. • Racing Thoughts: Racing thoughts or flight of ideas. • Distractibility: Easily distracted or inability to concentrate. • Impulsivity: Engaging in risky or impulsive behaviors, such as spending sprees, sexual indiscretions, or foolish business investments. 2. Hypomanic Episodes: • Similar to manic episodes but less severe, not causing significant impairment in social or occupational functioning and without psychotic features. 3. Depressive Episodes: • Depressed Mood: Persistent sadness, emptiness, or feeling tearful. • Loss of Interest: Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities. • Weight Changes: Significant weight loss when not dieting, weight gain, or decrease/increase in appetite. • Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleeping. • Psychomotor Changes: Either agitation or retardation noticeable by others. • Fatigue: Fatigue or loss of energy. • Feelings of Worthlessness: Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt. • Cognitive Impairment: Diminished ability to think, concentrate, or make decisions. • Suicidal Thoughts: Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or a suicide attempt. Causes: 1. Genetic Factors: • Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition. Specific genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of developing the disorder. 2. Biological Factors: • Brain Structure and Function: Differences in the brain structure and function, particularly in areas regulating mood and behavior, are linked to bipolar disorder. • Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Abnormalities in neurotransmitters (such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine) can contribute to mood instability. 3. Environmental Factors: • Stressful Life Events: Traumatic experiences, significant life changes, and chronic stress can trigger mood episodes in susceptible individuals. • Substance Abuse: Drug or alcohol abuse can trigger or worsen mood episodes and interfere with treatment. 4. Psychosocial Factors: • Psychological Stress: High levels of stress and poor coping mechanisms can exacerbate symptoms. • Social Factors: Lack of support systems, strained relationships, and social isolation can contribute to the severity and frequency of mood episodes. 6. Discuss common reasons why people commit suicide. How could you tell that someone was going to commit suicide or is this impossible to know? Answer: Suicide is a complex phenomenon influenced by various factors, and it is a significant public health concern. Understanding the common reasons why people commit suicide and recognizing the warning signs can help in prevention efforts. Common Reasons for Suicide: 1. Mental Health Disorders: • Depression: Major depression is the most common condition associated with suicide, leading to feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. • Bipolar Disorder: Extreme mood swings and impulsivity can increase the risk. • Anxiety Disorders: Chronic anxiety and panic attacks can contribute to suicidal thoughts. • Schizophrenia: Psychotic symptoms and severe mental disturbances can lead to suicidal behavior. 2. Trauma and Abuse: • History of Trauma: Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse can lead to long-term emotional pain and suicidal thoughts. • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Survivors of traumatic events may experience intrusive thoughts and feelings that contribute to suicidal ideation. 3. Substance Abuse: • Alcohol and Drug Abuse: Substance abuse can impair judgment, increase impulsivity, and exacerbate underlying mental health issues. 4. Chronic Illness and Pain: • Physical Health Conditions: Chronic pain or terminal illnesses can lead to feelings of hopelessness and a desire to end suffering. 5. Social and Economic Factors: • Isolation and Loneliness: Lack of social support and feelings of isolation can contribute to suicidal thoughts. • Financial Problems: Economic hardships and job loss can lead to overwhelming stress and hopelessness. 6. Hopelessness: • Perceived Lack of Future: Feeling that one's situation will not improve can lead to despair and suicidal thoughts. Identifying Suicide Risk: While it can be challenging to predict suicide with certainty, there are several warning signs and risk factors to watch for: 1. Verbal Cues: • Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself. • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live. • Discussing plans or methods for committing suicide. 2. Behavioral Changes: • Increased withdrawal from friends, family, and social activities. • Drastic changes in behavior or mood, including sudden calmness after a period of depression. • Giving away prized possessions or putting affairs in order. • Increased use of alcohol or drugs. • Engaging in reckless or self-destructive behaviors. 3. Emotional Changes: • Severe anxiety, agitation, or significant mood swings. • Feelings of being trapped or unbearable pain. • Expressing a sense of being a burden to others. 4. Previous Suicide Attempts: • A history of previous suicide attempts is a strong predictor of future attempts. 5. Access to Means: • Having access to means of suicide, such as firearms or medications, increases the risk. 6. Changes in Sleep Patterns: • Insomnia or excessive sleeping can be indicators of severe depression and suicidal thoughts. Prevention and Intervention: If you notice these signs in someone, it is crucial to take them seriously and intervene. Here are steps you can take: 1. Express Concern: Talk to the person and express your concern and willingness to help. 2. Listen Nonjudgmentally: Allow them to share their feelings without judgment. 3. Encourage Professional Help: Urge them to seek help from a mental health professional or contact a crisis hotline. 4. Remove Access to Means: If possible, remove access to potential means of suicide. 5. Stay Connected: Maintain regular contact and provide support. While predicting suicide with absolute certainty is impossible, being vigilant and responsive to warning signs can save lives and provide crucial support to those in need. 7. Differentiate three different personality disorders from each other. Answer: Personality disorders are mental health conditions characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience that deviate markedly from the expectations of an individual's culture. Here are descriptions and differences among three distinct personality disorders: 1. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): • Definition: ASPD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others. Individuals often engage in deceitful, manipulative, or unlawful behaviors. • Key Traits: Lack of remorse for actions, consistent irresponsibility, impulsivity, irritability, and aggressive behavior. They often exhibit charming or glib interactions superficially but fail to form genuine emotional bonds. • Differentiation: Unlike Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), individuals with ASPD are more likely to engage in criminal activities and show a blatant disregard for societal norms and the feelings of others. 2. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): • Definition: BPD involves a pervasive pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects, along with marked impulsivity. • Key Traits: Intense fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, rapid changes in self-identity and self-image, impulsive behaviors (e.g., substance abuse, spending sprees), emotional instability, chronic feelings of emptiness, and recurrent suicidal behavior or self-harm. • Differentiation: BPD is marked by emotional instability and intense interpersonal relationships, unlike ASPD's focus on violating others' rights or NPD's grandiosity and need for admiration. 3. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): • Definition: NPD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy. • Key Traits: Exaggerated sense of self-importance, preoccupation with fantasies of success or power, belief in being special and unique, requiring excessive admiration, sense of entitlement, exploiting others, lack of empathy, and arrogance. • Differentiation: NPD focuses on grandiosity and the need for admiration, unlike ASPD's disregard for others' rights or BPD's instability in relationships and self-image. 8. What factors indicate a favorable prognosis for recovery from schizophrenia? Answer: Several factors can contribute to a favorable prognosis for individuals with schizophrenia, which is a chronic and severe mental health disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, sense of self, and behavior. These factors include: 1. Early Intervention: Receiving treatment early in the course of the disorder can significantly improve outcomes. Early intervention often leads to better symptom control and functional recovery. 2. Good Premorbid Functioning: Individuals who had good social, academic, and occupational functioning before the onset of schizophrenia are more likely to recover well. 3. Support System: Strong social support from family, friends, and mental health professionals can provide emotional and practical help, improving adherence to treatment and overall well-being. 4. Adherence to Treatment: Consistent use of prescribed medications, such as antipsychotics, and participation in psychotherapy and other therapeutic activities contribute to better management of symptoms. 5. Absence of Substance Abuse: Avoiding drugs and alcohol, which can exacerbate symptoms and complicate treatment, is crucial for a favorable prognosis. 6. Stable Living Environment: A supportive and stable living environment can reduce stress and provide a safe space for recovery. 9. For each of the following, provide a definition, a suspected cause, and a sample symptom: schizophrenia, bulimia, agoraphobia, borderline personality disorder. Answer: 1. Schizophrenia: • Definition: Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, sense of self, and behavior. • Suspected Cause: Likely caused by a combination of genetic, biochemical, structural, and environmental factors. Dopamine imbalance is often implicated. • Sample Symptom: Hallucinations, particularly auditory hallucinations where the individual hears voices that others do not. 2. Bulimia Nervosa: • Definition: Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, fasting, or excessive exercise. • Suspected Cause: A combination of genetic, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Stress, low self-esteem, and societal pressure to be thin are common contributors. • Sample Symptom: Recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting. 3. Agoraphobia: • Definition: Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by intense fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable during a panic attack. • Suspected Cause: Often develops after one or more panic attacks, leading to a fear of having another attack in a situation where escape might be difficult. Genetic and environmental factors contribute. • Sample Symptom: Avoidance of places like shopping malls, public transportation, or being outside the home alone due to fear of being unable to escape or get help. 4. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): • Definition: BPD is a mental health disorder characterized by pervasive instability in moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image, and behavior. • Suspected Cause: A combination of genetic, brain structure/function abnormalities, and environmental factors such as early trauma or abuse. • Sample Symptom: Intense fear of abandonment, leading to frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. These definitions, causes, and symptoms help clarify the complexities of these mental health conditions, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing each disorder's unique aspects for effective treatment and support. Test Bank for Psychology for Living: Adjustment, Growth, and Behavior Today Steven J. Kirsh, Karen Grover Duffy, Eastwood Atwater 9780205961627
Download
Close
Close
