Psychology 2301 Exam 1

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The interpersonal perspective focuses on social determinants of behavior, emphasizing the impact of social interactions, relationships, and communication on an individual's behavior. This perspective looks at how people's behavior is influenced by their interactions with others and the social environment. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not primarily focus on social determinants of behavior. The attachment perspective is concerned with emotional bonds between individuals, the humanistic perspective emphasizes personal growth and self-fulfillment, and the existential perspective focuses on individual freedom and responsibility in creating meaning in life.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Genes play a role in most mental disorders.' This statement is true as genes do play a significant role in the development of various mental disorders. Choice A is incorrect because most behavioral disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and other factors, not exclusively genes. Choice C is incorrect as genes do affect biochemical processes. Choice D is incorrect because the expression of genes in an individual can be influenced by experiences and environmental factors, a concept known as gene-environment interaction.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because high SES as a cause for abnormal behavior is not supported by existing data. Abnormal behavior is often associated with factors like stress, trauma, genetics, or environmental influences. High SES is not a known cause of abnormal behavior. Choices A, B, and C are more plausible explanations: Low SES may lead to limited access to mental health care, untreated abnormal behavior due to financial constraints, and difficulties in coping with mental health issues after job loss, respectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Neural plasticity refers to the brain's flexibility to change existing neural circuits or create new ones. Choice A is incorrect as it describes neurotransmitter breakdown, not neural plasticity. Choice C is incorrect because neural plasticity does not necessarily indicate brain damage leading to mental disorders. Choice D is incorrect because neural plasticity is not specifically related to temperament or personality development in children.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct term for conditions that increase the probability of a disorder but are neither necessary nor sufficient to cause it is 'Contributory causes.' Risk factors (Choice A) are conditions that increase the likelihood of a negative outcome but do not imply causation. Sufficient causes (Choice C) are conditions that guarantee the occurrence of a disorder by themselves. Protective factors (Choice D) decrease the likelihood of a disorder rather than increasing it.