Topic 2 - Abnormal Psychology

Question 1

What does the evolutionary perspective suggest about mental illnesses?

Answer 1

The evolutionary perspective suggests that mental illnesses are actually part of human history. Every culture seems to have words for them.

Question 2

What does the high prevalence and “universality” of mental illnesses suggest about them?

Answer 2

That mental illnesses are actually evolved mechanisms.

Question 3

Why are prevalence rates of mental disorders much higher in some countries?

Answer 3

There can be various explanations, which need to be incorporated. Economics, culture, and how we think about mental illnesses are at the base of these explanations.

Question 4

What are some of the risk factors the WHO lists for the development of mental illnesses?

Answer 4

Individual attributes, social circumstances and environmental factors. Examples: cognitive/emotional immaturity, difficulties communicating, medical illness/substance use, neglect, family conflict, work stress, exposure to war/disaster.

Question 5

What are some of the protective factors the WHO lists for the development of mental illnesses?

Answer 5

Good health, supportive family, good economic background, healthy environment.

Question 6

Can mental disorders be on a bell curve?

Answer 6

Evolutionary psychology suggests yes. Experiences with mental health lie on a bell curve, with mental disorders at the extremes of the curve. Different cultures conceptualise them differently, but neurological correlates suggest universality and support this hypothesis.

Question 7

Are mental disorders meant to last forever?

Answer 7

Studies suggest the high prevalence of mental disorders across the life span (83% met criteria at least once), as well as the impermanence of these disorders.