Psychology 101 Exam 3 Test

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The diathesis-stress model proposes that mental disorders develop from a combination of genetic vulnerability (the diathesis) and environmental stressors. Choice A is incorrect because it states that stress alone can cause mental disorders, which is not in line with the model. Choice C is incorrect as it simplifies the model to genetic factors alone causing mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests that environmental stressors do not play a role in the onset of mental disorders, which contradicts the essence of the diathesis-stress model.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'polygenic.' Mental disorders are polygenic, which means they are influenced by multiple genes. This term specifically refers to conditions or traits that are caused by more than one gene. Choice A, 'environmental,' is incorrect as it doesn't directly refer to the genetic influence on mental disorders. Choice B, 'chemical circuits,' is incorrect as it is too specific and not a common term used to describe the genetic basis of mental disorders. Choice D, 'probabilistic,' is incorrect as it relates more to the likelihood or chance of something happening rather than the genetic influence on mental disorders.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In understanding abnormal behavior, it is crucial to differentiate between necessary, sufficient, and contributory causes. Necessary causes are those that are required for a disorder to develop, meaning that without them, the disorder would not occur. However, their presence does not guarantee the occurrence of the disorder. Sufficient causes, on the other hand, are those that alone can guarantee the development of a disorder, but they are not the only factors that can lead to it. Contributory causes are factors that increase the likelihood of a disorder but are not essential on their own nor do they guarantee the disorder. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the role of necessary causes in the development of abnormal behavior. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they misrepresent the definitions and roles of sufficient and contributory causes in causing abnormal behavior.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When examining heredity and mental disorders, it is important to note that these conditions are influenced by multiple genes working together. Mental disorders are complex traits that arise from the interplay of various genetic and environmental factors. Therefore, choice B, 'influenced by multiple genes,' is the correct answer. Choice A, 'influenced by one particular gene,' is incorrect because mental disorders typically do not result from the action of a single gene. Choice C, 'influenced by recessive genes,' is incorrect as it oversimplifies the genetic basis of mental disorders. Choice D, 'not influenced by genes,' is also incorrect as genes play a significant role in the development of mental disorders.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Biological discoveries have indeed led to a recognition of the role that genetic factors and other biological influences play in the development of many disorders. This understanding has shifted the focus from purely environmental explanations to acknowledging the significant impact of genetics and biology on mental health. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because biological discoveries have not specifically addressed the subjectivity of definitions of abnormality, minimized the role of the environment in psychopathology, or definitively classified mental disorders as diseases that should only be handled by the medical profession.