Introduction to Psychopathology

A research method investigating whether family members share psychopathology based on their genetic relatedness. It assesses the probability of developing a disorder based on family connections.

Twin studies compare the likelihood of identical (MZ) and fraternal (DZ) twins developing similar psychopathology symptoms. This helps estimate the contribution of genetic factors to the disorder.

Studying offspring of MZ twins who themselves may or may not possess the psychopathology. This helps isolate genetic influences by comparing children of twins even though they have different expressions of the disorder.

A model that suggests a mental health problem arises from an interaction between a genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. This means you might inherit a tendency towards a disorder, but it might only manifest under certain stressful conditions.

A measure of how much a trait or condition is due to genetic factors. It ranges from 0 (no genetic influence) to 1 (completely determined by genes).

A genetic approach that aims to identify specific genes associated with transmitting psychopathology symptoms. This focuses on individual genes and their role in the development of disorders.

Comparing the inheritance of characteristics with known gene locations to identify genes associated with specific psychopathology symptoms.

Genes, biological factors, behavioral patterns, and psychological experiences all contribute to the development of psychotic symptoms. This highlights the complex interplay of multiple factors in mental health.

A part of the psyche responsible for rational thought and controlling impulses from the 'id'.

Mechanisms used by the ego to manage unacceptable impulses from the 'id' and reduce anxiety.

Denying the existence of a threatening or unpleasant reality.

Pushing unacceptable thoughts or impulses out of conscious awareness.

Reverting to a behavior from an earlier stage of development.

Behaving in a way that's the opposite of your true feelings.

Attributing your own unacceptable thoughts or impulses to someone else.

Creating logical explanations for unacceptable behaviors or thoughts.

Shifting unacceptable impulses from one target to another.

Channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable behaviors.

Part of the psyche that represents internalized moral values and ideals.

A state of mental distress arising from conflicts between the id, ego, and superego.

A set of principles that explain how behaviors are learned through associations with stimuli or consequences.

Learning by associating two stimuli, where one triggers the other.

Learning by associating behaviors with their consequences.

The process of how a medication is given, including the route, dosage, and frequency.

The way a medication is delivered into the body (e.g., oral, intravenous).

The amount of medication given at a time, and how often it's given.

The point where repeated doses of a medication reach a stable level in the body.

The initial phase of medication use, focusing on how the medication is given (administration) and the medication protocol.

The study of how the medication moves through the body (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion).

The study of how the medication interacts with the body at the cellular level (how it produces its effects).

The factors that influence how medication works in different individuals, such as genetic differences, environmental factors, and other medications.

The process of assigning individuals to specific categories based on their symptoms and behaviors, aimed at understanding the cause of these issues, organizing support, facilitating communication, and evaluating treatment effectiveness.

A set of symptoms that consistently occur together and are thought to represent a specific mental disorder.

The study of the origins of mental health disorders, including their biological, psychological, and social causes.

The first comprehensive classification system for mental disorders, developed by Emil Kraepelin.

A diagnostic system developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to categorize illnesses, including mental health disorders.

A diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that provides criteria for diagnosing mental disorders.

The process of gathering information about an individual's mental health, including symptoms, history, and functioning, to provide a comprehensive picture.

A set of specific criteria used to diagnose a disorder, based on the presence or absence of symptoms.

The process of distinguishing one disorder from another, ensuring the correct diagnosis is made.

The co-occurrence of two or more mental disorders in one individual.

A disorder that shares characteristics of several different disorders, blurring the lines between them.

A range of disorders that share common symptoms, but with varying degrees of severity.

The presence of symptoms that do not meet the full criteria for a specific disorder, but still cause significant distress or impairment.

The level of severity of a mental health disorder, based on the impact on daily functioning and distress.

The idea that mental health disorders are not simply present or absent, but rather exist along a continuum, with varying degrees of severity.

A large-scale initiative designed to increase the availability of evidence-based interventions for mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

Professionals trained to deliver evidence-based psychological interventions to individuals facing mental health challenges.

A structured, computer-generated environment that replicates real-life situations, allowing individuals to practice coping skills and manage anxiety in a safe and controlled setting.

Form of virtual reality exposure therapy that aims to help individuals confront their fears and anxieties in a simulated environment, gradually reducing their distress. By safely exposing them to feared stimuli, it aims to help them overcome their anxiety related to those triggers.

Evaluating the effectiveness of mental health treatments can be challenging, as different theoretical approaches may have differing views on what constitutes successful therapy.

Factors that can positively contribute to therapeutic progress, such as a supportive therapist, a positive client attitude, and a healthy home environment.

These aspects can hinder a client's progress in therapy, such as an unsupportive home environment, poorly structured interventions, and a therapist who lacks empathy.

The use of video-based communication and online platforms to deliver mental health services.

A method of therapy that emphasizes the present moment and non-judgmental observation of thoughts and feelings.

A type of therapy that combines mindfulness principles with cognitive therapy techniques. It aims to reduce emotional distress by increasing awareness of thoughts and their impact.

A therapy approach that focuses on accepting and understanding thoughts rather than trying to change them. It emphasizes values and taking actions aligned with those values.

A therapy method that encourages individuals to engage in activities they have been avoiding, believing that it can alleviate depression symptoms.

A therapy approach that values a personal and empathetic connection between the therapist and client, believing that it fosters self-realization and self-growth.

A type of humanistic therapy focused on the individual's present experiences and how they interact with their environment. It aims to increase awareness and encourage self-expression.

A type of humanistic therapy based on the belief that individuals have an innate capacity for growth and self-actualization. It emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard and client-centered approach.

An approach used in therapy that involves family members to address psychopathology, considering their relationship dynamics and communication patterns.

A common treatment method for psychopathology often used as the first line of intervention. They aim to alleviate symptoms by influencing neurochemicals in the brain.

A class of antidepressants that increase the availability of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. They were among the first antidepressants developed.

A type of antidepressant that increases the availability of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain by inhibiting an enzyme called monoamine oxidase.

A class of antidepressants that selectively inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, increasing its levels in the brain.

A class of antidepressants that inhibit the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.

A class of medications used to treat anxiety and stress by increasing the levels of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.

Drugs used to treat psychosis and schizophrenia by reducing the activity of dopamine receptors in the brain.