interactionist approach Flashcards
What is the interactionist approach in explaining schizophrenia?
The interactionist approach acknowledges that both biological and psychological factors contribute to the development of schizophrenia.
What does the diathesis-stress model propose?
The diathesis-stress model proposes that schizophrenia develops due to an interaction between a genetic vulnerability (diathesis) and environmental stressors.
What is meant by ‘diathesis’ in the context of the diathesis-stress model?
‘Diathesis’ refers to a pre-existing vulnerability to schizophrenia often genetic in nature.
What role do environmental stressors play in the diathesis-stress model?
Environmental stressors act as triggers that can activate the underlying vulnerability leading to the onset of schizophrenia.
Give an example of a potential environmental stressor for schizophrenia.
Examples include childhood trauma significant life events
What is the modern understanding of diathesis in the diathesis-stress model?
Modern research suggests diathesis may include factors beyond genetics such as early neurological damage.
How does the diathesis-stress model inform treatment approaches for schizophrenia?
It supports the use of a combination of treatments such as antipsychotic medication to address biological factors and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to manage psychological stressors.
Why is the interactionist approach considered beneficial for schizophrenia treatment?
It allows for more comprehensive and personalised treatment by addressing both biological and psychological aspects of the disorder.
What evidence supports the diathesis-stress model?
Research shows that individuals with a genetic predisposition to schizophrenia are more likely to develop the disorder if exposed to significant stressors.
How does the diathesis-stress model explain why some people with genetic vulnerability do not develop schizophrenia?
It suggests that without the presence of significant environmental stressors the disorder may not manifest despite the genetic vulnerability.
