Final Flashcards
What differentiates MDD from Persistent Depressive Disorder?
MDD involves more severe symptoms for ≥2 weeks, while PDD is chronic, less severe, lasting ≥2 years.
Name three biological structures affected in MDD.
The prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and anterior cingulate cortex.
What is the “permissive model” of depression?
It posits serotonin imbalance disrupts norepinephrine and dopamine regulation, contributing to depression.
What is a major side effect of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)?
Drowsiness, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction.
What distinguishes Bipolar I from Bipolar II?
Bipolar I includes full manic episodes, while Bipolar II involves only hypomanic and depressive episodes.
Define rapid cycling in bipolar disorder.
Experiencing ≥4 mood episodes within one year.
What percentage of bipolar disorder is heritable?
Between 60% and 87%.
What is a significant drawback of lithium treatment?
Requires careful monitoring due to potential toxicity and long-term organ effects.
What are the two key pharmacological criteria for substance use disorders?
Tolerance and withdrawal.
Which substance has the highest rates of dependence?
Nicotine (32%), followed by heroin (23%).
Name two biological treatments for opioid addiction.
Naloxone (overdose reversal) and buprenorphine (partial agonist/antagonist).
What is the DSM-5 criterion for “risky use” in substance use disorders?
Use in physically hazardous situations or causing physical/psychological problems.
What are positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia?
Positive: Delusions, hallucinations. Negative: Flat affect, avolition, anhedonia.
What neurotransmitter is central to schizophrenia’s biochemical model?
Dopamine, with excess in some areas and deficiency in others.
Name a side effect of first-generation antipsychotics.
Tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements), portruding tongue, pursed lips
What is the goal of cognitive therapy for schizophrenia?
To identify triggers, reframe delusions, and reduce anxiety-provoking beliefs.
What is the key difference between delusional disorder and schizophrenia?
Delusional disorder involves persistent delusions without the broader psychotic symptoms seen in schizophrenia.
Name two types of delusions commonly seen in psychotic disorders.
Persecutory (belief of being targeted) and grandiose (belief of having special powers or status).
What are common comorbidities with schizophrenia?
Substance use disorders, depression, and cardiovascular diseases.
What is the “dopamine hypothesis” of schizophrenia?
The theory that excessive dopamine activity in some brain regions and deficient activity in others contribute to symptoms.
What psychosocial treatment strategies are effective for schizophrenia?
Family therapy to reduce expressed emotion, cognitive therapy to reframe delusions, and social skills training.
What is the significance of “prodromal symptoms” in schizophrenia?
Early warning signs (e.g., social withdrawal, mild hallucinations) that precede full-blown psychosis.
What is the purpose of criminal commitment?
To determine a defendant’s competency to stand trial or after a verdict of “Not Criminally Responsible by Reason of Mental Disorder” (NCRMD).