Abnormal Psych Exam II

Bipolar I disorder is characterized by the presence of manic episodes, which are periods of abnormally elevated mood, excessive energy, and impulsive behavior. On the other hand, Bipolar II disorder is characterized by hypomanic episodes, which are similar to manic episodes but less severe. Hypomanic episodes do not cause significant impairment in functioning, whereas manic episodes often lead to severe disruption in daily life. Therefore, the key difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder lies in the intensity and severity of the manic episodes experienced by individuals with each disorder.

Exposure to the feared stimulus under therapeutic supervision appears to be the most effective treatment for phobias. This technique, known as exposure therapy, involves gradually exposing the individual to the feared object or situation in a controlled and supportive environment. By facing their fears in a safe setting, individuals can learn to manage and eventually overcome their phobias. Anti-depressants may be prescribed to manage symptoms of anxiety or depression associated with phobias, but they are not considered the primary treatment for phobias.

Combat or sexual assault are both traumatic events that can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Combat situations often involve exposure to life-threatening situations, witnessing violence, and experiencing the loss of comrades, which can lead to significant psychological distress. Similarly, sexual assault involves a traumatic violation of personal boundaries, often leaving the survivor feeling vulnerable, powerless, and experiencing intense fear and distress. Both situations can cause individuals to develop symptoms such as intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance of reminders, emotional numbness, and hyperarousal, which are characteristic of PTSD.

Electric Convulsion Therapy (ECT) is a type of treatment for depression that induces seizures. It involves passing electrical currents through the brain to intentionally trigger a brief seizure. This treatment is typically used when other treatments have not been successful or when the depression is severe and urgent. ECT has been found to be effective in improving symptoms of depression in some individuals, although the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. It is usually administered under anesthesia and with muscle relaxants to minimize discomfort and potential risks.

Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and persistent worrying about various aspects of life. The correct answer states that its course tends to be chronic. This means that the disorder often lasts for a long duration, with symptoms persisting over time. Unlike some other anxiety disorders that may have periods of remission or improvement, generalized anxiety disorder typically remains present and can have a long-term impact on an individual's daily life and functioning.

The most essential characteristic of social phobia is the fear of evaluation by other people. This means that individuals with social phobia have an intense and irrational fear of being judged, criticized, or humiliated by others in social situations. This fear often leads to avoidance of social interactions and can significantly impact a person's daily life and well-being.

Bipolar II disorder is characterized by episodes of depression and hypomania. During depressive episodes, individuals experience persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. Hypomanic episodes, on the other hand, involve elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity, but to a lesser extent than full-blown mania. These alternating cycles of depression and hypomania distinguish Bipolar II disorder from other mood disorders.

Anxiety is a psychological experience characterized by future events, while fear is characterized by concern about current circumstances. Anxiety refers to a feeling of unease or worry about something that may happen in the future, while fear is a response to an immediate threat or danger. In the given options, anxiety is paired with fear, which accurately reflects their respective definitions.

The prognosis for Bipolar disorder is described as incurable but treatable. This means that while there is no known cure for the disorder, it can be effectively managed and controlled through various treatment options such as medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. With proper treatment and support, individuals with Bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling and productive lives, although they may still experience occasional symptoms or episodes. It is important for individuals with Bipolar disorder to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan that suits their specific needs.

Depression is the most common mood disorder because it affects a large number of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. Depression can have a significant impact on a person's daily functioning and overall well-being. It can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and chemical imbalances in the brain. Treatment options for depression include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Depression is often diagnosed as a comorbid condition with anxiety. Many individuals who experience anxiety also struggle with symptoms of depression, such as persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and low energy levels. The co-occurrence of anxiety and depression can complicate treatment and may require a comprehensive approach that addresses both conditions simultaneously. It is important for healthcare professionals to assess and identify the presence of depression when diagnosing anxiety disorders to ensure appropriate and effective treatment.

Negative and inconsistent attention from parents during childhood can make a person more vulnerable to anxiety in adulthood. This is because consistent and positive attention from parents is crucial for the development of a secure attachment and a sense of emotional security in children. When children receive negative and inconsistent attention, they may develop insecure attachment styles and have difficulty regulating their emotions, leading to increased anxiety in adulthood.

Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by a persistent fear of social situations. Anti-depressants are commonly prescribed to treat social phobia as they can help alleviate symptoms such as excessive worry, fear, and panic in social settings. These medications work by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety. While cough drops may help with a sore throat and Klonopin and Xanax are both anti-anxiety medications, they are not specifically indicated for the treatment of social phobia.

The word "mania" literally translates into "madness." "Manic" refers to a state of extreme excitement or energy, "mean" refers to being unkind or cruel, and "mania" simply means an intense enthusiasm or obsession. However, "madness" captures the essence of mania, as it implies a state of insanity or irrational behavior, which aligns with the true meaning of the word.

The majority of people who suffer from agoraphobia are women because cultural factors make it more acceptable for women to express fear and anxiety. Society often expects women to be more vulnerable and emotional, which may lead to a higher prevalence of agoraphobia in women. This cultural expectation allows women to seek help and support more openly, while men may feel pressured to hide their fears and avoid seeking treatment.

When a person experiences somatic tension, they often feel a sense of unease and discomfort in their body. This physical tension can lead to a heightened state of worry and apprehension, which is commonly associated with anxiety. Anxiety is characterized by feelings of restlessness, tension, and a sense of impending danger or doom. Therefore, anxiety is the most appropriate feeling that occurs when a person experiences somatic tension.

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) shares similarities with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Both disorders involve obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. In BDD, individuals are preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance, leading to excessive grooming or seeking reassurance. Similarly, OCD involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety. BDD and OCD can coexist in some cases, and both disorders share common neural and cognitive mechanisms. Therefore, the correct answer is obsessive-compulsive disorder.

A present-oriented mood state refers to a state of mind where an individual's focus and emotions are primarily centered on the present moment. Fear, as the correct answer, is a mood state that is characterized by a strong feeling of apprehension or unease about a perceived threat or danger in the present. It is a natural response to a perceived threat and can trigger various physiological and psychological reactions. In this context, fear can consume an individual's thoughts and emotions, causing them to be present-oriented and focused on the potential danger.

Individuals experiencing depersonalization may describe a sense of observing themselves from an external perspective or feeling as if they are detached from their own experiences. This can manifest as feeling detached from oneself or the external world, as if things are unreal or dreamlike. It is characterized by a sense of disconnection from one's own thoughts, emotions, and actions. This dissociative experience can be distressing and may lead to difficulties in functioning and relating to others.

Gaba (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps to regulate brain activity and inhibit nerve transmission. It functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it helps to calm and reduce the activity of neurons in the brain. Large amounts of Gaba can help to reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing excessive neuronal firing. Serotonin and Epinephrine are also neurotransmitters but do not have the same calming effect as Gaba. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons.

Dissociative trance disorder is a condition where a person experiences sudden and temporary changes in their personality. These changes are often attributed to trauma, such as a past traumatic event or ongoing stress. This disorder is characterized by a person's inability to recall important personal information, confusion about their identity, and a sense of detachment from their environment. The sudden change in personality is a result of the individual's attempt to cope with the traumatic experiences they have faced.

The worldwide prevalence for depression is 16%. This means that approximately 16% of the global population is affected by depression. Depression is a common mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and a range of physical and psychological symptoms. The prevalence of depression varies across different countries and populations, but on a global scale, it is estimated to affect around 16% of people.