psychopathology Flashcards
What is the definition of Statistical Infrequency in the context of abnormality?
Mathematical method for defining abnormality. Rare = abnormal.
How does the standard deviation relate to Statistical Infrequency?
Human attributes fall into a normal distribution
What does deviation from social norms indicate?
Abnormality
What are social norms?
Implied, unwritten rules that society must follow.
How can culture impact the perception of abnormality?
Culture can impact what is considered ‘abnormal’ and acceptable.
What are the six criteria for ‘normality’ in deviation from ideal mental health? - Jahoda
- Independance
- Self-actualisation
- Positive self-attitude
- Resistance to stress
- Environmental mastery
- Accurate perception of reality
What does failure to function adequately take into account?
It considers the whole population unlike other definitions.
What are some criticisms of quantifying abnormality?
- It does not account for rare and desirable behaviours
- Even abnormal behaviours can occur frequently
What does evaluating deviation from social norms emphasize?
It recognizes that age and context alter perceptions of behaviour.
Why is the definition of deviation from social norms flexible?
Social norms change over time, therefore this definition must too.
What is the implication of cultural differences in defining normal functioning?
Cultural differences need to be considered when determining what is ‘normal’ functioning.
What are the clinical characteristics of OCD?
- Repetition & compulsions (behavioural)
- Anxiety & depression (emotional)
- Selective attention & obsessive thoughts (cognitive)
What genetic factors are associated with OCD?
- COMT gene (regulates dopamine)
- SERT gene (linked to lower levels of serotonin)
What is the role of the basal ganglia in OCD?
It influences the coordination of movement and is linked to OCD-like symptoms after head injuries.
What does the orbitofrontal cortex do in relation to OCD?
It converts sensory information into thoughts and is more active in those with OCD.
What did Lewis (1936) find regarding the genetics of OCD?
37% of patients with OCD had parents with the disorder.
What did Nestadt et al. (2010) discover about twins and OCD?
68% of MZ twins and 31% of DZ twins experience OCD.
What are SSRIs and their function in treating OCD?
SSRIs increase the level of serotonin by preventing its reabsorption.
What do Benzodiazepines do in the treatment of OCD?
They enhance the action of GABA, reducing anxiety.
What is a criticism of biological treatments for OCD?
Once a patient stops taking the drug, they are prone to relapse.
What are the clinical characteristics of depression?
- Reduced appetite & sleep (behavioural)
- Anger & feeling worthless (emotional)
- Negative thoughts & inability to concentrate (cognitive)
What cognitive biases contribute to depression according to Beck?
Catastrophising and negative self-schema.
What is the ABC model of depression according to Ellis?
Depression is caused by an activating event, followed by an irrational belief and consequences.
What positive implications arise from the cognitive explanation of depression?
Treatments like CBT and REBT help challenge and change irrational thoughts.
What is a limitation of the cognitive explanation of depression?
It does not explain the origin of the irrational thoughts.
What is the goal of CBT in treating depression?
To identify and challenge irrational thoughts.
What did March et al. (2007) find about the effectiveness of CBT?
CBT was as effective as antidepressants, but a combination was most effective.
What are the clinical characteristics of phobias?
- Avoidance and panic (behavioural)
- Fear and anxiety (emotional)
- Selective attention and irrational beliefs (cognitive)
What is Mowrer’s two-process model?
Classical conditioning explains how phobias are acquired, and operant conditioning explains how they are maintained.
What is the function of classical conditioning in phobias?
A neutral stimulus becomes a conditioned stimulus producing fear.
What did Watson and Raynor (1920) demonstrate regarding phobias?
Fear responses can be induced through classical conditioning.
What is systematic desensitisation?
A treatment where the patient and therapist create a fear hierarchy to work through gradually.
What is flooding in the context of phobia treatment?
Exposes the individual to the anxiety-inducing stimulus immediately.
What is a potential issue with treating phobias through counterconditioning?
Another phobia may appear in its place (symptom substitution).
