Quiz on Abnormal Psychology 1st ppt prelim part 1

What is the study of abnormal behavior also known as?

• Abnormal Psychology

• Clinical Psychology

• Psychopathology

• Neuropsychology

Answer explanation

The study of abnormal behavior is primarily referred to as Abnormal Psychology. Psychopathology is also a term used to describe the study of mental disorders, making both correct answers.

What does the term "normal behavior" refer to?

• Behavior that is statistically average

• Behavior that is socially acceptable

• Behavior that conforms to legal standards

• Behavior that causes no distress

Answer explanation

The term 'normal behavior' encompasses various aspects: it can refer to behavior that is statistically average, socially acceptable, conforms to legal standards, and causes no distress, highlighting its multifaceted nature.

Which of the following is NOT a criterion for determining abnormal behavior?

• Cultural relativism

• Distress

• Financial stability

• Deviance

Answer explanation

Financial stability is not a criterion for determining abnormal behavior. The other options—cultural relativism, distress, and deviance—are key factors in assessing what constitutes abnormal behavior.

What are the Four D's of abnormal behavior?

• Danger, Deviation, Distress, Dysfunction

• Distress, Dysfunction, Deviance, Denial

• Dysfunction, Distress, Despair, Danger

• Distress, Distortion, Deviance, Decision

Answer explanation

The Four D's of abnormal behavior are Danger, Deviation, Distress, and Dysfunction. These criteria help in identifying and understanding abnormal behavior, making the first answer choice the correct one.

According to the DSM-5, which is NOT a defining characteristic of a mental disorder?

• Current distress

• Disability

• Cultural acceptance

• Increased risk of suffering

Answer explanation

Cultural acceptance is not a defining characteristic of a mental disorder according to the DSM-5. The other options—current distress, disability, and increased risk of suffering—are all recognized as key features.

A clinician wants to assess the prevalence of a mental disorder. What should they investigate?

• The number of new cases per year

• The number of existing cases during a specific time

• The symptoms associated with the disorder

• The effectiveness of treatments

Answer explanation

To assess the prevalence of a mental disorder, the clinician should investigate the number of existing cases during a specific time, as this reflects how widespread the disorder is in the population.

What historical perspective viewed abnormal behavior as a result of demonic possession?

• Biological Tradition

• Psychological Tradition

• Supernatural Tradition

• Humanistic Tradition

Answer explanation

The Supernatural Tradition attributed abnormal behavior to demonic possession, viewing mental illness as a result of supernatural forces rather than biological or psychological factors.

Who is considered the father of modern medicine?

• Galen

• Freud

• Hippocrates

• Charcot

Answer explanation

Hippocrates is often referred to as the father of modern medicine due to his contributions to medical ethics and the systematic study of clinical medicine, laying the groundwork for future medical practices.

What does the term 'diathesis' refer to in the diathesis-stress model?

• Environmental triggers

• A predisposition toward illness

• A specific psychological disorder

• A cultural influence

Answer explanation

In the diathesis-stress model, 'diathesis' refers to a predisposition toward illness, indicating that individuals may be more vulnerable to developing disorders when exposed to stressors.

Which of the following is an example of a precipitating factor in behavior?

• Genetic predisposition

• Stressful life events

• Cultural background

• Personality traits

Answer explanation

Stressful life events are external triggers that can precipitate changes in behavior, making them a clear example of a precipitating factor. In contrast, genetic predisposition, cultural background, and personality traits are more stable influences.