Abnormal Psychology: Master the Psychology of Mental Health

Question 1

In abnormal psychology, which perspective emphasizes the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in the development of psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Biopsychosocial perspective

Answer

Cognitive-behavioral perspective

Answer

Psychoanalytic perspective

Answer

Humanistic perspective

Question 2

In abnormal psychology, which perspective emphasizes the role of genetics and brain structure in psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Biological

Answer

Behavioral

Answer

Existential

Answer

Cognitive

Question 3

Which characteristic uniquely defines Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and distinguishes it from other anxiety disorders?

Accepted Answer

Excessive and persistent worry without a specific trigger

Answer

Sudden and unexpected panic attacks without a clear cause

Answer

Intense and irrational fear of specific objects or situations

Answer

Alternating periods of extreme mood elevation and severe depression

Question 4

What is a key characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Constant, excessive worry about various topics

Answer

Extreme fear of specific objects or situations

Answer

Periods of intense sadness and despair

Answer

Repeated compulsions and rituals

Question 5

Which of these is a defining symptom of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Visual hallucinations

Answer

Persistent low mood

Answer

Repeated, unwanted thoughts

Answer

Significant intellectual decline

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for developing psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Positive life experiences

Answer

Genetic factors

Answer

Environmental factors

Answer

Psychological factors

Question 7

Which of these is a protective factor, not a risk factor, for developing psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Strong social support

Answer

Family history of mental illness

Answer

Childhood trauma

Answer

Low socioeconomic status

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a primary risk factor for developing mental health disorders?

Accepted Answer

Marital status

Answer

Genetic predisposition

Answer

Environmental stressors

Answer

Cognitive-behavioral patterns

Question 9

According to the DSM-5, which symptom is a primary diagnostic criterion for schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Hallucinations or delusions lasting at least one month

Answer

Significant social or occupational difficulties

Answer

No identifiable physical cause for symptoms

Answer

Prior history of a psychotic episode

Question 10

Which symptom is most commonly associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive worry about various aspects of daily life

Answer

Persistent sadness and hopelessness

Answer

Hallucinations and delusions

Answer

Repetitive, compulsive behaviors

Question 11

In addition to genetic factors, which of the following is a known risk factor for developing psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Exposure to traumatic events

Answer

Strong social support

Answer

Good physical health

Answer

High socioeconomic status

Question 12

Which psychological approach emphasizes the role of unconscious processes and past experiences in shaping abnormal behavior and thoughts?

Accepted Answer

Psychodynamic Perspective

Answer

Biological Perspective

Answer

Cognitive Perspective

Answer

Humanistic Perspective

Question 13

Which of these is LEAST likely to be a primary risk factor for developing a psychological disorder?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive ability

Answer

Experiencing trauma or abuse in childhood

Answer

Genetic predisposition

Answer

Individual personality traits

Question 14

Which perspective in defining abnormal psychology highlights the challenges faced in performing daily tasks and meeting societal expectations?

Accepted Answer

Impairment in functioning

Answer

Statistical rarity

Answer

Personal distress

Answer

Violation of societal norms

Question 15

Which treatment approach for schizophrenia primarily uses medications that block dopamine receptors?

Accepted Answer

Antipsychotic medication

Answer

Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Answer

Psychodynamic therapy

Answer

Electroconvulsive therapy

Question 16

Which symptom is **NOT** a common characteristic of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Experiencing hallucinations or delusions

Answer

Excessive and uncontrollable worry

Answer

Persistent physical tension or fatigue

Answer

Impaired concentration or memory

Question 17

Which of the following is a defining symptom of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Disorganized thinking and speech

Answer

Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness

Answer

Excessive preoccupation with body weight and shape

Answer

Intense craving for substances of abuse

Question 18

Which symptom is a defining characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Constant and excessive worry about various topics

Answer

Panic attacks without clear triggers

Answer

Repetitive rituals or routines to reduce anxiety

Answer

Extreme fear or avoidance of specific objects or situations

Question 19

Which perspective in abnormal psychology highlights the significance of underlying medical conditions in the development and persistence of psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Medical model

Answer

Social model

Answer

Cognitive model

Question 20

What is the defining symptom of a panic disorder?

Accepted Answer

Sudden, unexpected panic attacks

Answer

Persistent, uncontrollable worry and fear

Answer

Intense fear or anxiety in specific situations or towards certain objects

Question 21

In abnormal psychology, which perspective highlights the significance of sociocultural factors in the development and persistence of psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Sociocultural perspective

Answer

Biological perspective

Answer

Psychodynamic perspective

Answer

Cognitive perspective

Question 22

Which of the following is a defining feature of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive and persistent worry with accompanying physical symptoms of anxiety

Answer

Intense fear or anxiety triggered by a specific object or situation

Answer

Sudden and unexpected attacks of intense fear or anxiety with accompanying physical symptoms

Question 23

Which of the following is NOT a diagnostic criterion for anorexia nervosa according to the DSM-5?

Accepted Answer

Recurrent binge eating and purging behavior

Answer

Intense fear of gaining weight

Answer

Restriction of food intake leading to significantly low body weight

Answer

Disturbance in the way a person experiences their own body weight or shape

Question 24

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Accepted Answer

Intrusive, recurring thoughts and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors

Answer

Uncontrollable fears of specific objects or situations

Answer

Excessive worry and anxiety not tied to a specific trigger

Answer

Sudden, overwhelming panic attacks without an identifiable trigger

Question 25

Which symptom is commonly experienced by individuals diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive and persistent worry about various topics, even minor ones

Answer

Experiencing hallucinations and delusions

Answer

Performing compulsive rituals and repetitive behaviors

Question 26

Which perspective in abnormal psychology emphasizes the impact of societal and cultural factors?

Accepted Answer

Social and cultural perspective

Answer

Biological perspective

Answer

Psychodynamic perspective

Answer

Cognitive perspective

Question 27

Which personality disorder is characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions)?

Accepted Answer

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

Answer

Paranoid personality disorder

Answer

Avoidant personality disorder

Question 28

In somatic symptom disorders, which symptom is commonly observed? Individuals experience physical symptoms that are:

Accepted Answer

B. Exaggerated physical symptoms (e.g., severe pain, fatigue)

Answer

A. Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there)

Answer

C. Delusions (fixed, false beliefs)

Answer

D. Compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts)

Question 29

Which of the following is a well-established risk factor for developing psychological disorders, as evidenced by substantial research?

Accepted Answer

Experiencing childhood trauma or abuse

Answer

Having a strong social support system

Answer

Engaging in regular physical activity

Answer

Maintaining a healthy diet

Question 30

Which of the following is a primary characteristic of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Accepted Answer

Persistent, intrusive thoughts or images

Answer

Trouble falling or staying asleep

Answer

Emotional outbursts and aggression

Answer

Difficulty concentrating and memory impairment

Question 31

Within the field of Abnormal Psychology, which perspective focuses on personal growth and the potential for self-actualization?

Accepted Answer

Humanistic Model

Answer

Medical Model

Answer

Psychological Model

Answer

Social Model

Question 32

What is a primary symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive and persistent worry

Answer

Hallucinations

Answer

Mood swings

Answer

Compulsions

Question 33

Which symptom is commonly experienced by individuals with somatic symptom disorders?

Accepted Answer

Excessive attention and anxiety about minor physical sensations or bodily functions

Answer

Experiencing vivid auditory hallucinations

Answer

Following strict dietary restrictions and engaging in excessive exercise

Question 34

What is a defining characteristic of histrionic personality disorder (HPD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive attention-seeking behavior

Answer

Intense and unstable relationships

Answer

Inflexible and rigid thinking patterns

Answer

Persistent sadness and hopelessness

Question 35

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Hallucinations

Answer

Excessive worry

Answer

Muscle tension

Answer

Irritability

Question 36

In the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which approach aims to identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that contribute to anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

Answer

Psychodynamic therapy

Answer

Pharmacotherapy

Answer

Family therapy

Question 37

As per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), a defining characteristic of panic disorder is:

Accepted Answer

A constant fear of experiencing a sudden panic attack

Answer

Excessive anxiety about various topics or events

Answer

Focus on physical symptoms like sweating or shaking

Question 38

Which characteristic is a defining feature of anxiety disorders that distinguishes them from other mental health conditions?

Accepted Answer

Persistent and excessive worry about various topics or events for at least six months

Answer

Sudden episodes of intense fear or anxiety that peak within minutes

Answer

Extreme avoidance of social situations due to fear of judgment

Answer

Unwanted and intrusive thoughts or images that cause distress or impairment

Question 39

According to the medical model, abnormal behavior is primarily attributed to:

Accepted Answer

Underlying physical or mental health conditions

Answer

Moral shortcomings or deliberate choices

Answer

Supernatural or spiritual forces

Question 40

In the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), which medication is typically NOT used?

Accepted Answer

Antipsychotics

Answer

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Answer

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

Answer

Benzodiazepines

Question 41

What is a defining characteristic of somatic symptom disorder?

Accepted Answer

Persistent physical symptoms without a clear medical cause

Answer

Hallucinations and delusions

Answer

Severe anxiety and panic attacks

Question 42

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Accepted Answer

Recurring, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions)

Answer

Excessive anxiety about the future

Answer

Alternating periods of extreme happiness and sadness

Question 43

Which of the following is a recognized protective factor against the onset of psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Adequate social support

Answer

Environmental stressors

Answer

Genetic predisposition

Answer

Personality traits

Question 44

Compare the Positive and Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia.

Explain how these distinct symptom categories contribute to our understanding of the disorder's clinical presentation.

Accepted Answer

Positive Symptoms involve an excess or distortion of normal functions, while Negative Symptoms involve a decrease or loss of normal functions.

Answer

Negative Symptoms involve an excess or distortion of normal functions, while Positive Symptoms involve a decrease or loss of normal functions.

Answer

Positive Symptoms are always more severe than Negative Symptoms.

Answer

Negative Symptoms are more responsive to treatment than Positive Symptoms.

Question 45

Which symptom is a key characteristic of a depressive episode, as defined by the DSM-5?

Accepted Answer

Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness

Answer

Increased or irritable mood most of the day, nearly every day

Question 46

Which of these is a core symptom of schizophrenia that directly reflects a distorted perception of reality?

Accepted Answer

Experiencing hallucinations

Answer

Difficulty interacting with others

Answer

Limited emotional range

Question 47

According to the DSM-5, which of these is a key characteristic of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)?

Accepted Answer

Extreme focus on order, perfection, and control

Answer

Unstable and intense relationships

Answer

Lack of empathy and remorse

Question 48

Which symptom cluster is characteristic of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Excessive worry, avoidance behaviors, and physical discomfort

Answer

Panic attacks, fear of public places, and intrusive thoughts

Answer

Depressed mood, loss of interest in activities, and suicidal ideation

Answer

Hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech

Question 49

Which of the following is NOT a core symptom of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Anxiety

Answer

Hallucinations

Answer

Delusions

Answer

Disorganized thinking

Question 50

Which factor is NOT considered a risk factor for developing depression?

Accepted Answer

Positive personality traits

Answer

Insufficient sleep

Answer

Stressful life events

Answer

Genetics

Question 51

What is the primary objective of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)?

Accepted Answer

To modify unhelpful thoughts and behaviours

Answer

To provide emotional support and validation

Answer

To prescribe medications

Answer

To uncover repressed memories

Question 52

Which disorder is classified as a psychotic disorder?

Accepted Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Depression

Answer

Anxiety disorder

Answer

Personality disorder

Question 53

What is the key distinction between a diagnosis and a prognosis?

Accepted Answer

A diagnosis classifies a condition, while a prognosis predicts its outcome

Answer

A diagnosis predicts the outcome, while a prognosis classifies a condition

Answer

A diagnosis and a prognosis are the same thing

Answer

A diagnosis can only be made by a psychiatrist, while a prognosis can be made by any healthcare professional

Question 54

Which ethical principle in psychology emphasizes the right of clients to make their own decisions?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 55

What is a core component of evidence-based practice in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Integrating research findings into practice

Answer

Relying solely on traditional methods

Answer

Ignoring cultural factors

Answer

Prioritizing client preferences over evidence

Question 56

How does culture influence the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders?

Accepted Answer

Culture can shape symptoms, diagnostic interpretations, and treatment approaches

Answer

Culture has no significant impact on mental health experiences

Answer

Culture only affects treatment options

Answer

Mental disorders should be diagnosed using a culture-blind approach

Question 57

Interdisciplinary collaboration in treating psychological disorders highlights the:

Accepted Answer

Enhanced patient outcomes through the integration of diverse approaches.

Answer

Exclusive reliance on medication or psychotherapy for treatment.

Answer

Limited applicability to only severe and complex cases.

Answer

Primary focus on reducing healthcare costs.

Question 58

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to treat which of the following disorders?

Accepted Answer

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Borderline Personality Disorder

Answer

Alcohol Use Disorder

Question 59

Which neurotransmitter system is implicated in the pathogenesis of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Serotonin

Answer

Noradrenaline

Answer

GABA

Question 60

The concept of 'positive symptoms' in schizophrenia refers to:

Accepted Answer

Delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech

Answer

Flat affect, social withdrawal, and apathy

Answer

Cognitive deficits, memory problems, and attention difficulties

Answer

Mood swings, impulsivity, and self-harm

Question 61

Which of the following is a protective factor against the development of depression?

Accepted Answer

Strong social support network

Answer

History of childhood trauma

Answer

Low socioeconomic status

Answer

Genetic predisposition

Question 62

The DSM-5 is primarily:

Accepted Answer

A diagnostic manual for mental disorders

Answer

A treatment guide for psychological conditions

Answer

A research tool for studying abnormal psychology

Answer

A policy document for mental health professionals

Question 63

Which of the following is NOT a core symptom of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Accepted Answer

Phobias

Answer

Obsessions

Answer

Compulsions

Answer

Anxiety

Question 64

The concept of 'learned helplessness' is associated with the development of:

Accepted Answer

Depression

Answer

Anxiety

Answer

Psychosis

Answer

Personality disorders