Psychology Final Exam

Motivation refers to a need or desire that provides the energy and direction for behavior. It is the internal drive that pushes individuals to take action and achieve their goals. Motivation can be influenced by various factors such as personal needs, external rewards, and internal drives. It plays a crucial role in determining the behavior and actions of individuals in different situations.

The ego is the conscious "executive" of personality that mediates between the id and the superego. It helps us make decisions and take actions that are appropriate in the real world. It acts as a mediator between the impulsive desires of the id and the moral standards of the superego. The ego helps us find a balance between our instinctual drives and societal expectations.

The correct answer is Bystander Effect. The Bystander Effect refers to the phenomenon where individuals are less likely to offer help to a person in need when there are other people present. This is because individuals often assume that someone else will take responsibility or that their own help is not necessary. As a result, the presence of other bystanders decreases the likelihood of any one person taking action to help.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a biomedical therapy used to treat severe depression. It involves passing a brief electric current through the brain of an anesthetized patient. This electric current induces a controlled seizure in the brain, which is believed to alleviate symptoms of depression. ECT is typically used when other treatments have not been effective, and it can provide rapid relief for patients experiencing severe depression or suicidal thoughts.

Exposure therapy is a behavioral technique used to treat anxiety by gradually exposing individuals to situations or stimuli that trigger their anxiety. This therapy aims to help individuals confront and overcome their fears by gradually increasing their tolerance and reducing their avoidance behavior. By repeatedly exposing themselves to these anxiety-provoking situations in a controlled and supportive environment, individuals can learn to manage their anxiety and regain control over their lives. This therapy has been proven effective in treating various anxiety disorders, such as phobias, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is the correct answer because it is an anxiety disorder that occurs after experiencing a traumatic event. The symptoms mentioned in the question, such as haunting memories, nightmares, social withdrawal, jump anxiety, and insomnia, are all common symptoms of PTSD. GAD, OCD, and MDD are not specifically related to a traumatic experience and do not encompass all the symptoms mentioned.

Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is characterized by an intense fear of being criticized by others and avoiding social situations that may lead to embarrassment. People with social phobia may feel anxious or self-conscious in situations such as speaking up, eating out, or going to parties. This fear can significantly impact their daily life and relationships. Therefore, social phobia is the correct answer as it aligns with the given description of the intense fear of criticism and avoidance of social situations.

Personality refers to a person's characteristic pattern of thinking, feeling, and acting. It encompasses various traits, attitudes, and behaviors that are consistent and enduring over time. This concept is widely studied in the field of psychology to understand individual differences and how they influence behavior in social situations.

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. It involves various physiological processes that regulate temperature, blood pressure, and other bodily functions within a narrow range. A balanced internal state is achieved through homeostasis, ensuring optimal functioning of the body's systems. This concept is closely related to the idea of a balanced internal state, as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining equilibrium and stability for overall well-being.

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania. During depressive episodes, individuals experience feelings of hopelessness and lethargy, while during manic episodes, they exhibit overexcitement and high energy levels. This disorder is different from depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and major depressive disorder (MDD) as it involves both depressive and manic symptoms.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is the correct answer because it fits the description given in the question. MDD is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and other symptoms such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide. The question states that the person experiences these symptoms for at least two weeks, in the absence of drugs or another medical condition. GAD, Panic Disorder, and OCD do not specifically match the symptoms described in the question.

Antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression as they work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood. These medications can help lift people out of a state of depression by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. They are specifically designed to target the symptoms of depression and improve mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Antipsychotics are typically used to treat conditions like schizophrenia, not depression. Depressants like alcohol may temporarily provide relief but can worsen depression in the long run. Antianxiety drugs depress the central nervous system but are not specifically indicated for treating depression.

The superego is the part of the personality that focuses on how we should behave and provides standards for judgment. It is often in conflict with the id, which represents our basic instincts and desires. The superego acts as the moral compass or "angel" of the personality, guiding us to make decisions based on societal norms and values.

Projection is the correct answer because it involves attributing one's own unacceptable or threatening impulses onto others. In this scenario, the thief is projecting their own tendency to steal onto everyone else, assuming that everyone else is also a thief. Projection allows individuals to avoid facing their own unacceptable thoughts or desires by displacing them onto others.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is the correct answer because it is characterized by persistent and excessive worry and anxiety about various aspects of life. People with GAD are constantly tense, apprehensive, and experience physical symptoms of anxiety such as restlessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. This disorder is chronic and can significantly impair daily functioning. Unlike other anxiety disorders such as Panic Disorder or Phobia, GAD is not triggered by specific situations or objects, but rather is a general sense of worry and anxiety that persists over time. PTSD, on the other hand, is a different anxiety disorder that is triggered by a traumatic event.

Conformity refers to adjusting our behavior to align with the standards and expectations of a group. It involves changing our attitudes, beliefs, and actions to fit in and be accepted by the group. This can happen due to social pressure or a desire to be liked or approved by others. Conformity can be observed in various situations, such as following fashion trends, adopting certain behaviors or opinions, or adhering to social norms. It is a common social phenomenon that influences individuals to conform to the group's norms and values.

Milgram's study was conducted to see whether or not people would respond to outright commands from someone else, even if those commands caused unnecessary pain to others. The study aimed to examine the extent to which individuals would obey authority figures, regardless of the moral implications of their actions. The correct answer, "commands; obey; authority," accurately reflects the purpose of Milgram's study and the relationship between commands, obedience, and authority.

When women experience stress after caregiving for children with disorders, studies have found that their telomeres, which are protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, become shorter. This suggests that stress causes telomeres to shorten. Since telomere length is associated with aging, shorter telomeres make individuals appear older than they actually are. Therefore, the correct answer is "stress; shortened; older."

Psychoanalysis is the correct answer because it aligns with the description provided in the question. Freud's therapeutic technique involved the exploration of the patient's free associations, resistances, dreams, and transferences, as well as the therapist's interpretations of them. Through this process, previously repressed feelings were released, leading to self-insight for the patient. This description accurately reflects the principles and goals of psychoanalysis.

Instinct refers to a complex behavior that is innate and unlearned, yet displayed by all members of a species. It is a fixed pattern of behavior that is genetically programmed and does not require any prior experience or learning. This behavior is typically essential for survival and reproduction.

Anti-psychotic drugs are used to treat schizophrenia and other severe thought disorders. These medications help to reduce hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms associated with these conditions. They work by affecting certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine, which are believed to be involved in the development of psychosis. Anti-psychotic drugs can be an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan for individuals with these conditions, along with therapy and other interventions.

Neuroticism refers to a personality trait characterized by being anxious, insecure, self-pitying, and emotionally unstable. People with high levels of neuroticism tend to experience negative emotions more frequently and intensely. They may worry excessively, feel insecure in relationships, and have difficulty managing stress. This trait is associated with a higher risk of developing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

A psychological disorder refers to patterns of thoughts, feelings, or actions that are deviant, distressful, and dysfunctional. This means that the individual's thoughts, emotions, or behaviors deviate from what is considered normal or socially acceptable. These patterns also cause significant distress or impairment in the person's daily functioning. The biopsychosocial approach is a comprehensive perspective that considers biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding and treating psychological disorders. Social phobia, on the other hand, is a specific psychological disorder characterized by an intense fear and avoidance of social situations.

Counterconditioning is the correct answer because it involves using classical conditioning to evoke new responses to stimuli that trigger unwanted behaviors. In this case, the person is being conditioned to relax (new response) when in a closed elevator (triggering unwanted behaviors). Counterconditioning aims to replace the unwanted behavior with a more desirable one by pairing the triggering stimulus with a positive or neutral stimulus, such as relaxation or pleasant experiences. This helps to change the person's response to the triggering stimulus and reduce or eliminate the unwanted behavior.

Conscientiousness refers to the personality trait of being organized, careful, and disciplined. People who are conscientious tend to be responsible, reliable, and self-disciplined. They are likely to plan ahead, pay attention to details, and follow through on their commitments. This trait is often associated with being diligent, efficient, and focused.

Psychological disorders are characterized by dysfunction, which means that there is a disruption or impairment in a person's thoughts, emotions, or behaviors. In this context, dysfunction refers to the negative impact that the disorder has on a person's life. Therefore, when something impairs or negatively affects a person's life, it can be considered a psychological disorder.

Freud is known for his theory of psychoanalysis, which suggests that unconscious motives and conflicts influence our thoughts and actions. He established this theory during the Victorian era.

Cognitive therapy is the correct answer because it focuses on helping individuals change their negative thinking patterns that contribute to the worsening of depression and anxiety. It assumes that our thoughts influence our emotions and behaviors, and by identifying and challenging negative thoughts, individuals can alleviate their symptoms. Unlike biomedical therapy, which involves the use of medication, cognitive therapy is a non-pharmacological approach to treating mental health disorders. Psychoanalysis involves exploring unconscious thoughts and emotions, while electroconvulsive therapy is a more invasive treatment option for severe cases.

The concept of drive-reduction theory suggests that when an organism experiences a physiological need, such as hunger or thirst, it creates a state of tension or drive. This drive then motivates the organism to engage in behaviors that will satisfy those needs and reduce the tension. In other words, the theory proposes that our primary motivation is to reduce any physiological imbalances or needs that we experience. This explanation aligns with the idea that motivation is driven by the desire to fulfill basic physiological needs.

When we perceive a loss of control or when we are unable to control our environment, we become more susceptible to illness. Workers with more stressful jobs will usually die more often and quicker than those who don't. The more control workers have, the longer they live.

Biomedical therapy refers to a type of therapy that involves prescribing medication or procedures that directly target a person's physiology. This approach focuses on treating mental health conditions by addressing the biological factors that contribute to them. Unlike psychoanalysis, which explores unconscious thoughts and emotions, cognitive therapy, which focuses on changing negative thought patterns, and counterconditioning, which aims to replace negative behaviors with positive ones, biomedical therapy primarily relies on medical interventions to alleviate symptoms and improve mental well-being.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is the correct answer because it is an anxiety disorder that involves unwanted repetitive thoughts, known as obsessions, and/or actions, known as compulsions. People with OCD often feel the need to perform certain rituals or routines to alleviate their anxiety caused by these obsessions. This disorder can significantly interfere with daily life and functioning.

Agreeableness refers to an individual's tendency to be compassionate, cooperative, and considerate towards others. People who are soft-hearted, trusting, and helpful are likely to score high on agreeableness as they prioritize maintaining harmonious relationships and helping others. They are empathetic and willing to compromise, making them easy to get along with. This trait is often associated with kindness, warmth, and a desire to avoid conflict.

Phobia is the correct answer because it refers to an anxiety disorder where an individual experiences an irrational fear that leads them to avoid certain objects, activities, or situations. Phobias can be specific, such as a fear of spiders or heights, or they can be more generalized, such as a fear of public speaking. In either case, the fear is excessive and causes significant distress or impairment in daily life.

Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals exert less effort when working in a group compared to when working alone. In the given scenario, the person who is not actively participating in the carwash while others are working is an example of social loafing. This behavior occurs because individuals feel less accountable and tend to rely on others to complete the task, leading to a decrease in overall effort.

Stress hormones decrease the amount of disease-fighting lymphocytes you have. Stress takes away energy from your immune system and sends it to your muscles and brain. This makes you more susceptible to disease.

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by sudden and recurrent panic attacks. These panic attacks are unpredictable and can last for a few minutes, causing intense fear and distress. Physical symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, choking sensations, and a rapid heartbeat are commonly experienced during these episodes. Unlike other anxiety disorders, panic disorder is specifically defined by the occurrence of panic attacks. Therefore, panic disorder is the most appropriate explanation for the given symptoms described in the question.

Regression refers to a defense mechanism where an individual retreats to an earlier stage of development in order to cope with stress or anxiety. In this scenario, the little boy sucking his thumb for oral comfort on the first day of school indicates a regression to a more infantile stage. This behavior is a way for him to find comfort and security in a familiar habit during a potentially stressful situation.

The biopsychosocial approach is the correct answer because it acknowledges that biological, psychological, and social factors all interact to create a psychological disorder. This approach recognizes that nature and nurture both play a role in the development of disorders, and that negative emotions can contribute to physical illness, and vice versa. It also recognizes that our body and mind are interconnected, suggesting that a holistic approach is necessary to understand and treat psychological disorders.

The correct answer is Id. The explanation for this is that the Id represents the primitive and instinctual part of the mind. It is driven by the pleasure principle and seeks immediate gratification of basic needs such as hunger, thirst, and sexual desires. The Id operates on unconscious energy and is not concerned with the outside world or moral considerations. It can be seen as the "devil" of personality because it is impulsive, irrational, and can lead to destructive behaviors if not regulated by the other parts of the mind.

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for activating the body in times of stress or danger. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and other bodily functions to prepare the body for action. This response is commonly known as the "fight or flight" response. The parasympathetic nervous system, on the other hand, is responsible for calming the body down after the stressor has passed. The autonomic nervous system is the division of the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions, including both the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. Psychoanalysis is a psychological therapy method and is unrelated to the question.

Social psychology is the study of how individuals think about, influence, and relate to one another. It focuses on understanding how social factors impact behavior and cognition. This field explores topics such as attitudes, conformity, persuasion, group dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. By examining the social influences on human behavior, social psychology provides insights into the ways individuals perceive and interact with others in various social contexts.

The fundamental attribution error refers to the tendency to attribute someone's behavior to their internal characteristics or personality traits, while underestimating the influence of external situational factors. In this case, when we overestimate the influence of personality and underestimate the influence of situations, we are committing the fundamental attribution error. This error occurs because we often rely on cognitive shortcuts and stereotypes to explain behavior, rather than considering the complex interplay between individual traits and situational factors.

Xanax is an antianxiety drug that depresses the central nervous system's anxiety. It is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders. Xanax belongs to the class of medications known as benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Therefore, Xanax helps to alleviate anxiety symptoms by slowing down the activity in the brain and producing a calming effect.

Openness is the correct answer because being imaginative, independent, and preferring variety are traits associated with this personality trait. Openness refers to the willingness to experience new things, the ability to think creatively, and the inclination to seek out diverse experiences. Individuals who are high in openness tend to be curious, open-minded, and enjoy exploring different ideas and perspectives. They are often creative, independent thinkers who embrace change and are open to new possibilities.

Extraversion refers to the personality trait of being sociable, friendly, and affectionate. People who score high on extraversion tend to be outgoing, enjoy social interactions, and seek stimulation from the external world. They are often energized by being around others and are more likely to take part in social activities. This trait is characterized by assertiveness, enthusiasm, and a positive outlook on life.

Deviance from social norms, distress to the individual, and dysfunction in daily life are key factors in defining a psychological disorder. Behaviors that are considered abnormal or statistically deviant, cause significant emotional distress, and impair an individual's ability to function in their daily life are more likely to be classified as disordered.

The results are considered shocking because none of the people who were studied appeared to have experienced any emotional or mental consequences from causing harm to the "learners." This suggests that the individuals did not feel guilty or remorseful for their actions, which goes against common expectations of empathy and moral responsibility.

When we attribute behavior to a particular situation, we are acknowledging that the behavior is influenced by the circumstances or environment in which it occurs. This means that the behavior is not solely a result of personal disposition or individual characteristics, but rather is shaped by external factors. Situational influence refers to the power of the situation to impact behavior, and it recognizes that people's actions can vary depending on the context they are in.

Reaction formation is a defense mechanism in which a person expresses feelings or impulses that are opposite to their true feelings. In this case, the individual is holding back angry feelings or being excessively friendly. This defense mechanism allows the person to cope with unacceptable impulses by behaving in a manner that is socially acceptable, even if it contradicts their true feelings.