Abnormal Psychology Quizzes: Test Your Knowledge of Mental Health Disorders

Question 1

Which of the following is a mood disorder characterised by episodes of intense depression alternating with periods of mania or hypomania?

Accepted Answer

Bipolar Disorder

Answer

Major Depressive Disorder

Answer

Schizoaffective Disorder

Answer

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Question 2

Which of the following is not a recognised risk factor for developing schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Birth in the spring

Answer

Family history of the disorder

Answer

Prenatal exposure to certain infections

Answer

Substance abuse

Question 3

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is based on the principle of:

Accepted Answer

Challenging and changing negative thoughts and behaviours

Answer

Focusing on past experiences to understand current difficulties

Answer

Using medication to alleviate symptoms

Answer

Exploring unconscious conflicts through dream analysis

Question 4

The ethical principle of beneficence in clinical psychology refers to the duty to:

Accepted Answer

Do no harm and promote well-being

Answer

Maintain confidentiality

Answer

Respect autonomy

Answer

Adhere to professional standards

Question 5

Which of the following is a key distinction between personality disorders and psychotic disorders?

Accepted Answer

Psychotic disorders involve more severe disruptions in reality testing than personality disorders.

Answer

Personality disorders are more stable and enduring, while psychotic disorders have more sudden onset.

Answer

Personality disorders are more common in females than males, while psychotic disorders affect both genders equally.

Answer

Psychotic disorders can be cured, while personality disorders cannot.

Question 6

Which of the following is a highly debatable topic in abnormal psychology?

Accepted Answer

The validity of using diagnostic labels

Answer

The role of biology in mental disorders

Answer

The effectiveness of therapy for severe mental illness

Answer

The use of medication for treating mental disorders

Question 7

Which of the following is a key diagnostic criterion for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) according to the DSM-5?

Accepted Answer

Excessive anxiety and worry most days for at least 6 months

Answer

Frequent and unexpected panic attacks

Answer

Significant difficulties in social or work life

Answer

Persistent thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Question 8

What is a key symptom of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive and uncontrollable worry

Answer

Hallucinations

Answer

Low mood

Question 9

What is the key feature that distinguishes bipolar disorder from unipolar depression?

Accepted Answer

Episodes of mania or hypomania

Answer

Chronic low mood

Answer

Hallucinations

Answer

Suicidal thoughts

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a core diagnostic criterion for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Accepted Answer

Impaired social functioning

Answer

Recurrent, intrusive thoughts or obsessions

Answer

Repetitive, compulsive behaviors or rituals

Answer

Significant distress or impairment in functioning

Question 11

Which of the following is a significant risk factor for developing a substance use disorder?

Accepted Answer

Peer pressure from people who promote substance use

Answer

Strong moral principles

Answer

Religious beliefs

Answer

High income and social status

Question 12

Comorbidity in the context of mental health refers to:

Accepted Answer

The co-occurrence of two or more mental disorders in an individual

Answer

The absence of any mental disorder in an individual

Answer

The presence of a physical illness in an individual along with a mental disorder

Answer

The absence of any physical illness in an individual with a mental disorder

Question 13

Which neurotransmitter has been most strongly linked to mood disorders?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin

Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Norepinephrine

Answer

Glutamate

Question 14

According to Beck's cognitive triad of depression, individuals with depression typically experience:

Accepted Answer

Negative views of themselves, the world, and the future

Answer

Positive views of themselves, the world, and the future

Answer

Neutral views of themselves, the world, and the future

Answer

Extreme views of themselves, the world, and the future

Question 15

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes:

Accepted Answer

The importance of personal responsibility and self-regulation in overcoming mental health challenges

Answer

The role of unconscious conflicts in shaping psychological distress

Answer

The need for unconditional positive regard and empathy in therapy

Answer

The exploration of existential themes and the meaning of life

Question 16

Borderline personality disorder is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Chronic instability in mood, relationships, and self-image

Answer

A pervasive pattern of avoidance of social situations

Answer

Persistent and excessive worry and anxiety

Answer

A grandiose sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy

Question 17

Psychological mindedness refers to:

Accepted Answer

The ability to understand and regulate one's own emotional experiences

Answer

The ability to understand and regulate the emotional experiences of others

Answer

The ability to suppress all emotional experiences

Answer

The ability to ignore all emotional experiences

Question 18

Cultural sensitivity in clinical practice involves:

Accepted Answer

Recognizing and respecting the cultural background and beliefs of clients

Answer

Ignoring cultural differences and focusing solely on diagnosis and treatment

Answer

Assuming that all clients have the same cultural experiences

Answer

Treating all clients from different cultures in the same way

Question 19

The recovery model of mental illness emphasizes:

Accepted Answer

Empowerment, hope, and self-determination

Answer

Medicalization, helplessness, and stigmatization

Answer

Symptom reduction and social isolation

Answer

Medication compliance and diagnostic labeling

Question 20

How do cultural factors impact the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders?

Accepted Answer

They influence the perceived symptoms of mental illness.

Accepted Answer

They affect the availability and accessibility of treatment options.

Answer

They determine the diagnostic criteria used by mental health professionals.

Answer

They have no influence on the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness.

Question 21

Persistent, intrusive thoughts or mental images characterize which of the following disorders?

Accepted Answer

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Answer

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Answer

Panic Disorder

Answer

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Question 22

According to the DSM-5 criteria, which of the following is NOT required for a diagnosis of Schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Depressive symptoms

Answer

Hallucinations

Answer

Delusions

Answer

Disorganized speech

Question 23

The biopsychosocial model of mental disorders emphasizes which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Mental disorders result from a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Answer

Mental disorders are solely caused by genetic factors.

Answer

Mental disorders are solely caused by environmental influences.

Answer

Mental disorders are solely caused by childhood experiences.

Question 24

What is the process of evaluating the severity of a mental disorder and making a diagnosis called?

Accepted Answer

Differential diagnosis

Answer

Clinical interview

Answer

Psychological testing

Answer

Treatment planning

Question 25

Which neurotransmitter is strongly linked to mood disorders such as depression?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin

Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Glutamate

Answer

GABA

Question 26

Which therapeutic approach emphasizes clients' strengths and potential for personal growth?

Accepted Answer

Humanistic Therapy

Answer

Psychoanalytic Therapy

Answer

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Answer

Psychodynamic Therapy

Question 27

Which treatment approach for borderline personality disorder emphasizes addressing emotional dysregulation?

Accepted Answer

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

Answer

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Answer

Psychodynamic therapy

Answer

Medication management

Question 28

Revised: According to the biopsychosocial model, which factor is not considered a contributing factor to the development of psychopathology?

Accepted Answer

Simplified: Spiritual factors (e.g., religious beliefs, existential concerns)

Answer

Revised: Biological factors (e.g., genetics, neurochemistry)

Answer

Revised: Psychological factors (e.g., personality traits, coping mechanisms)

Answer

Revised: Social factors (e.g., family environment, societal stress)

Question 29

Revised: Which neurotransmitter is primarily implicated in the development of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Simplified: Dopamine

Answer

Simplified: Serotonin

Answer

Simplified: GABA

Answer

Simplified: Acetylcholine

Question 30

Revised: What is the key difference between a delusion and a hallucination?

Accepted Answer

Simplified: A delusion is a false belief, while a hallucination is a false perception.

Answer

Simplified: A hallucination is a false belief, while a delusion is a false perception.

Answer

Simplified: Delusions are more common in schizophrenia, while hallucinations are more common in bipolar disorder.

Answer

Simplified: There is no difference between delusions and hallucinations.

Question 31

Revised: What is the ethical principle that requires psychologists to respect their clients' privacy and confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

Simplified: Confidentiality

Answer

Simplified: Autonomy

Answer

Simplified: Beneficence

Answer

Simplified: Justice

Question 32

Which of the following neurotransmitters is primarily implicated in the pathophysiology of depression?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin

Answer

GABA

Answer

Glutamate

Answer

Dopamine

Question 33

What is the term for a **constellation** of symptoms that occur together and are characteristic of a particular mental disorder?

Accepted Answer

Syndrome

Answer

Sign

Answer

Symptom

Answer

Diagnosis

Question 34

What is a fundamental difference between the DSM-5 and ICD-11 diagnostic systems?

Accepted Answer

The DSM-5 classifies disorders into separate categories, while the ICD-11 uses a dimensional approach.

Answer

The ICD-11 is more commonly used in clinical settings than the DSM-5.

Answer

The DSM-5 is more reliable than the ICD-11 in diagnosing disorders.

Question 35

What is the initial step in conducting a psychological assessment?

Accepted Answer

Gather a case history

Answer

Conduct a physical examination

Answer

Administer psychological tests

Answer

Make a diagnosis

Question 36

For a client diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), design a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates evidence-based approaches.

Accepted Answer

A combination of CBT, medication, and relaxation techniques

Answer

Medication (e.g., benzodiazepines) as the sole treatment

Answer

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as the exclusive treatment

Answer

Psychodynamic therapy without incorporating other approaches

Question 37

Which of the following is a core symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive, uncontrollable worry about a variety of topics, events, or activities.

Answer

Recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).

Answer

Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

Question 38

Which neurotransmitter has been consistently implicated in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD)?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin

Answer

Glutamate

Answer

Norepinephrine

Answer

Dopamine

Question 39

Which of the following is a hallmark characteristic of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Disorganized thinking and speech, often manifested as incoherent or illogical patterns.

Answer

Excessive preoccupation with cleanliness and order, leading to repetitive rituals.

Answer

Intense fear or avoidance of specific objects or situations.

Answer

Persistent feelings of worthlessness and excessive guilt.

Question 40

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders primarily focuses on:

Accepted Answer

Identifying and challenging maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety.

Answer

Exploring unconscious conflicts and past experiences.

Answer

Building self-esteem and improving self-confidence.

Question 41

Which of the following is a well-established risk factor for developing an eating disorder?

Accepted Answer

Perfectionism, characterized by excessively high standards and a relentless pursuit of flawlessness.

Answer

Absence of peer pressure, eliminating social influences that can contribute to body dissatisfaction.

Answer

High socioeconomic status, associated with greater access to resources and societal pressure.

Answer

Strong family support, providing a protective environment and reducing vulnerability.

Question 42

What is the primary purpose of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)?

Accepted Answer

To provide a standardized system for diagnosing mental disorders, ensuring consistency and reliability in clinical practice.

Answer

To develop and evaluate effective treatments for mental disorders, guiding therapeutic interventions.

Answer

To enhance understanding of the causes and mechanisms underlying mental disorders, advancing research.

Question 43

A fundamental distinction between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) lies in:

Accepted Answer

OCD involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors, while BDD involves excessive preoccupation with perceived physical flaws.

Answer

OCD involves compulsive handwashing, while BDD does not involve any repetitive behaviors.

Answer

OCD primarily affects women, while BDD primarily affects men.

Question 44

Which term refers to a fixed, false belief that is not based on reality?

Accepted Answer

Delusion

Answer

Hallucination

Answer

Phobia

Answer

Obsession

Question 45

Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of borderline personality disorder (BPD)?

Accepted Answer

Unstable and intense relationships, characterized by alternating idealization and devaluation of others.

Answer

Belief that one is being watched or controlled by others.

Answer

Excessive handwashing and cleaning rituals.

Answer

Loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable.

Question 46

The primary goal of psychopharmacological treatment for mental disorders is to:

Accepted Answer

Alleviate symptoms and improve overall functioning, enabling individuals to lead more fulfilling lives.

Answer

Completely cure mental disorders, eliminating all symptoms and impairments.

Answer

Alter personality traits, changing fundamental aspects of an individual's character.

Answer

Prevent the onset or progression of mental disorders, reducing the risk of future episodes.